Sri Lanka ranked 89th in Corruption Perception Index 2018; fails to show progress from previous year

Sri Lanka has failed to show progress on the 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), compiled by Transparency International (TI), ranking 89th in the world and third in South Asia, behind Bhutan (25th) and India (78th).

Issuing a statement, the global coalition against corruption, pointed out that Sri Lanka had retained its score of 38 from 2017. The release further stated that the Sri Lanka’s CPI score had fluctuated between 36 and 38 since 2013. The index measures on a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). 

"The CPI performance of Sri Lanka underscores its stagnant anti-corruption environment, which has seen the country’s CPI score fluctuate between 36 and 38 since 2013, despite the anti-corruption mandate provided to the government," the statement said.  Transparency International noted that a cross analysis with global democracy data reveals a link between corruption and the health of democracies.

On an average, full democracies score 75 while flawed democracies score 49 points. Hybrid regimes which display elements of autocracy rack up an average score 35. Autocratic regimes come in last with an average of 30 points.

“If the application of the law is interpreted as selective or politically motivated, it could prove detrimental to the anti-corruption drive and the justice system” TISL Executive Director Asoka Obeysekere said while commenting on the performance of Sri Lanka in the CPI index 2018.

The survey was compiled from 13 surveys and assessments to measure public sector corruption in 180 countries.

Denmark and New Zealand were ranked first and second with scores of 88 and 87 respectively while Somalia came in last at 180th with a score of 10.

To make real progress against corruption and strengthen democracy around the world, Transparency International calls on all governments to: 

• strengthen the institutions responsible for maintaining checks and balances over political power, and ensure their ability to operate without intimidation;  

• close the implementation gap between anti-corruption legislation, practice and enforcement;  

• support civil society organisations which enhance political engagement and public oversight over government spending, particularly at the local level;  

• support a free and independent media and ensure the safety of journalists and their ability to work without intimidation or harassment.  

The 2018 CPI is computed using 13 surveys and expert assessments to measure public sector corruption in 180 countries and territories.

Denmark and New Zealand are ranked 1st and 2nd respectively with scores of 88 and 87, with Somalia coming in last at 180th with a score of 10.