Transparency International warns that corruption is hindering global cooperation on climate change, with many countries witnessing deteriorating scores in their Corruption Perceptions Index. The report highlights the need for urgent action against corruption to safeguard climate finance and enhance the effectiveness of climate policies.
Transparency International (TI) warns that corruption poses a significant threat to global efforts to combat climate change. According to their recently published Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2024, many nations essential for climate diplomacy are experiencing a decline in their corruption scores. The CPI revealed that global corruption levels remain alarmingly persistent, with over two-thirds of the 180 ranked countries scoring below 50 out of 100, maintaining a stagnant average score of 43 from the previous year.
The report emphasizes the devastating impact of corruption on climate initiatives, particularly in countries vulnerable to the effects of climate change. With the rise of extreme weather events and escalating global temperatures, corruption is aggravating the climate crisis. TI highlighted that nations hosting significant climate conferences, such as Brazil, the venue for COP30, have seen notable declines in their CPI scores, indicating the correlation between corruption and ineffective climate policies.
Countries like South Africa, Vietnam, and Indonesia illustrate the detrimental effects of corruption on climate finance, particularly in areas that require these funds the most. Furthermore, nations most threatened by climate change, including South Sudan, Somalia, and Venezuela, rank among those with the lowest corruption scores. TI’s CEO, Maira Martini, stated the urgent need to eradicate corruption to ensure that climate action is not compromised.
To address the issue, the report advocates for improved metrics and frameworks to enhance climate transparency and accountability. Additionally, strengthening anticorruption bodies is suggested to deter environmental offenses and minimize impunity. The CPI assesses public sector corruption across 180 countries, with scores ranging from zero, indicating high corruption, to 100, denoting a very clean status.
In conclusion, Transparency International’s recent report underscores the detrimental nature of corruption in undermining global climate initiatives. With many countries showing declining anti-corruption scores, immediate actions are essential to mitigate this threat. Advocating for increased transparency and accountability is crucial to safeguard climate funding and promote effective climate actions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
