Afghanistan Drops Three Places in the 2024 Global Corruption Index

Transparency International has reported that Afghanistan has dropped three more places in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 165th out of 180 countries.

Afghanistan’s Position in the 2024 Corruption Index

Afghanistan scored only 17 points this year, compared to 20 points (rank 162) in 2023 and 24 points (rank 150) in 2022. This decline indicates an increase in corruption and a decrease in transparency within government institutions.

Least Corrupt Countries:
✔ Denmark, Finland, Singapore, and New Zealand

Most Corrupt Countries:
South Sudan, Somalia, Venezuela, and Syria

Comparison of Afghanistan with Neighboring Countries

✔ China – Rank 76 (43 points)
✔ Uzbekistan – Rank 121 (32 points)
✔ Pakistan – Rank 135 (27 points)
✔ Iran – Rank 151 (23 points)
✔ Tajikistan – Rank 164 (19 points)
✔ Turkmenistan – Rank 165 (17 points) – Same as Afghanistan

Why Did Afghanistan Drop in the Corruption Index?

🔹 The Taliban’s non-transparent and closed government, which prevents independent international oversight.
🔹 Increased corruption in government institutions and the absence of effective anti-corruption mechanisms.
🔹 Economic crisis and rising poverty, leading to widespread bribery and misuse of state resources.
🔹 Lack of independent oversight institutions, as the Taliban have shut down anti-corruption agencies.

Why Is the Corruption Index Important?

Transparency International ranks countries each year based on corruption levels, transparency, and government accountability, using data from the World Bank, the World Economic Forum, and other international organizations.

✔ This index is crucial for a country’s global reputation, investor confidence, and international aid eligibility.

Negative Consequences of Increased Corruption in Afghanistan

🔻 Reduction in international aid due to concerns over widespread corruption.
🔻 Worsening economic crisis as foreign investors flee Afghanistan.
🔻 Rising poverty and public dissatisfaction, which could lead to further instability.

Conclusion

Afghanistan dropped three more places in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking alongside Turkmenistan and Tajikistan as one of the most corrupt countries.

This decline highlights the lack of transparency, absence of government accountability, and widespread corruption in Afghanistan. Experts believe that weak oversight, an unaccountable government, and systemic corruption are the primary reasons behind this worsening situation.