The 21 Least Corrupt Countries in the World According to CPI 2024

Transparency International has just released the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2024, ranking 180 countries based on the perceived level of corruption in the public sector. A high CPI score (closest to 100) indicates low corruption, while a low score (closest to 0) indicates high corruption. Again, Denmark is at the top, but the list also highlights interesting changes and movements among the world’s most transparent nations. This article dives into the top 21 least corrupt countries according to CPI 2024 – and we count down from number 21 to number 1.

#21: Japan – Stability with Challenges

Japan scores 71 points, which is a drop of 2 points from the previous year. The country has strong institutions and a well-functioning administration, but is still challenged by close ties between business and bureaucracy. However, trust in the system remains high compared to many other countries.

#20: United Kingdom – Trust Under Pressure

The United Kingdom shares the 20th place with Japan, also scoring 71 points, with no change from 2023. Despite scandals and criticisms of transparency in politics, the country still manages to maintain a relatively high level of integrity in the public sector.

#19: Bhutan – A Remarkable Rise

Bhutan is among the most positive surprises in CPI 2024, with a score of 72 – an increase of 4 points. The small Himalayan kingdom is making significant progress in governance, rule of law, and public trust. A strong anti-corruption effort has paid off.

#18: Seychelles – Island State with Big Ambitions

Seychelles also scores 72 points, moving up by 1 point. The island nation stands out as one of the least corrupt countries in Africa, working diligently on reforms and anti-corruption policies. An important role model in its region.

#17: Hong Kong – Balancing East and West

With a score of 74 (a drop of 1 point), Hong Kong maintains its place among the least corrupt, despite increasing political pressure from China. The local anti-corruption agency ICAC is still seen as an effective institution and a global model.

#16: Canada – A Slight Dip in Credibility

Canada earns 75 points – 1 point less than in 2023 – and shares the 15th place with Germany. The country has a generally well-functioning democracy but has recently faced some cases that sparked debates about abuse of power and lobbying.

#15: Germany – A Warning in the Numbers

Germany scores 75 and has fallen 3 points from last year. This signals that the perception of corruption in the public sector has worsened. However, critical media and an engaged civil society still keep the system in check.

#14: Estonia – Eastern European Leader

Estonia impresses again in CPI 2024 with 76 points and a stable score. The digital society and transparent governance have made the country a role model for other post-Soviet nations. Corruption is low and digital control is high.

#13: Uruguay – Latin American Front Runner

Uruguay matches Estonia with 76 points and climbs 3 points from last year. This makes it the least corrupt country in Latin America. Uruguay’s strong institutions, press freedom, and democratic culture stand out in the region.

#12: Iceland – Successful Clean-Up

Iceland is one of the year’s biggest movers with a rise of 5 points to 77. After the 2008 financial crisis, the country has worked hard to restore trust in the authorities – and it seems to be paying off.

#11: Ireland – Consistent and Transparent

Ireland also achieves 77 points, maintaining its score from last year. The country is known for a well-functioning civil service and effective anti-corruption mechanisms, securing it a top spot in CPI 2024.

#10: Australia – Clear Improvement

Australia scores 77 points – an improvement of 2 points – indicating positive trends. After years of political criticism, the country has strengthened transparency and institutional safeguards against corruption.

#9: Netherlands – Solid Position Despite Decline

The Netherlands scores 78 points but falls by 1 point. Despite this, it remains among the least corrupt globally. A strong civil society and transparent authorities keep the country in the top field.

#8: Sweden – Nordic Quality Under Pressure

Sweden scores 80 points – a drop of 2 points. There is a growing debate about lobbying and trust in politicians, but the country maintains its high ranking thanks to strong democratic institutions and freedom of expression.

#7: Switzerland – Financial Role Model

Switzerland scores 81 points, experiencing a slight drop of 1 point. The country has strict financial regulations and high public trust in management. It remains one of the most transparent countries globally.

#5: Norway – Facing Slight Headwind

Norway falls 3 points to 81 but still shares 5th place. Corruption levels are low, and trust in authorities is high, but the significant drop should serve as a reminder of the necessity of sustained focus on integrity.

#5: Luxembourg – Small Country, Big Progress

Luxembourg makes a remarkable leap with +3 points, scoring 81. Known as a financial center, it also boasts strong institutions and transparency, placing it among the very best.

#4: New Zealand – Slightly Down, Still on Top

New Zealand scores 83 points, falling by 2 points in 2024. The country remains known for its strong rule of law and integrity in public life. It serves as an example of how a small nation can have significant ethical influence globally.

#3: Singapore – East Asia’s Model Country

Singapore scores 84 points, a rise of 1 point. With its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and effective authorities, Singapore is the most transparent country in Asia and a global role model.

#2: Finland – Close to Perfection

Finland scores 88 points and is this year’s second least corrupt country, surpassed only by Denmark. The country is built on high trust, low power distance, and an exceptionally open society. A Nordic giant of integrity.

#1: Denmark – World’s Least Corrupt Country

Denmark tops CPI 2024 with 90 points – unchanged from last year. The Danish society is characterized by trust, openness, and efficient administration. For the third year in a row, Denmark is the world’s least corrupt nation according to Transparency International.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.