Islamabad, February 10, 2026: Pakistan recorded a modest improvement in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, rising one point in score from 27 in 2024 to 28, while ranking 136th out of 182 countries, compared to 135th out of 180 last year.
Chairman of Transparency International Pakistan, Justice Zia Perwez, acknowledged the country’s governance and institutional reform efforts but stressed the need for effective implementation of the IMF Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment to sustain upward momentum.
The Berlin-based watchdog noted that corruption is worsening globally, with even established democracies facing rising challenges. This year’s index shows that only five countries scored above 80, down from 12 a decade ago, while over two-thirds of nations scored below 50—indicating serious corruption concerns worldwide.
Denmark retained the top position for the eighth consecutive year with a score of 89, while Somalia and South Sudan ranked lowest with nine points each. Full democracies averaged a CPI score of 71, compared to 47 for flawed democracies and 32 for authoritarian regimes.
Transparency International emphasized that strong institutions, independent oversight, free elections, and protected civic space are critical to controlling corruption. The report also warned that shrinking civic freedoms and attacks on journalists undermine accountability and often correlate with declining CPI scores.
Calling for urgent action, TI urged governments to strengthen justice systems, ensure transparency in political financing, protect media freedom, and support civil society. CEO Maira Martini noted that amid climate crises, instability, and polarization, “the world needs accountable leaders and independent institutions more than ever.”
