Pakistan saw a small improvement in Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). It moved up one place from 135 in 2024 to 136 out of 182 countries in 2025. Pakistan’s CPI score also rose from 27 to 28. The report was published on Tuesday by Transparency International. Justice Zia Perwez, Chair of Transparency International Pakistan, said, "While Pakistan is undertaking commendable efforts in governance and institutional reforms, it is imperative that the recommendations of the IMF Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment are implemented effectively." He stressed that this is essential to sustain Pakistan’s progress in the CPI. The global picture shows corruption worsening in many countries, including established democracies. The number of countries scoring above 80 dropped from 12 a decade ago to only five now. This year, 68% of countries scored below 50, signaling serious corruption problems worldwide. Denmark topped the index again with a score of 89, while countries like Somalia and South Sudan scored as low as nine. The report highlights a decline in democracy and civic freedoms in many places, which worsens corruption. Francois Velerian, Chair of Transparency International, stated, "Corruption is not inevitable. Our research and experience as a global movement fighting corruption show there is a clear blueprint for how to hold power to account for the common good." Transparency International urged governments to strengthen justice systems, protect civic space, and ensure transparency in political funding and decision-making. They warned that failure to address corruption risks public protests and instability. TI CEO Maira Martini commented, "The world needs accountable leaders and independent institutions to protect the public interest more than ever – yet, too often, they are falling short." The report also criticized actions by powerful nations that weaken global anti-corruption efforts. These include foreign interference in elections and reducing funding to civil society groups. Protecting journalists and whistle-blowers is crucial. Since 2012, 829 journalists were killed, with 150 murdered covering corruption stories. Countries like Pakistan remain dangerous for reporters investigating corruption. Transparency International calls for robust national and international measures to prevent corruption, hold leaders accountable, and end the impunity of wrongdoers who hide assets abroad. Strong coalitions and enforcement are key to battling corruption and rebuilding democracy worldwide.