Seychelles Tops Japan in Corruption Perception Index for the First Time in Sub-Saharan Africa
Introduction: Japan Trade Promotion Organization (JETRO) has released a new report on February 18, 2025, indicating that Seychelles has surpassed Japan in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranking, becoming the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve this milestone.
Key Findings: In the 2024 CPI ranking, Seychelles secured a score of 69 out of 100, while Japan received a score of 66. This marked a significant improvement for Seychelles, which had a score of 63 in the previous year.
Factors Contributing to Seychelles’ Rise: JETRO attributed Seychelles’ rise in the CPI ranking to several factors, including:
- Strong institutional framework: Seychelles has implemented robust anti-corruption laws and regulations, including the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Freedom of Information Act.
- Transparency and accountability: The government has taken steps to enhance transparency in public procurement and financial management.
- Civil society engagement: Civil society organizations play an active role in monitoring corruption and promoting ethical practices.
Japan’s Decline: While Japan has traditionally been perceived as a low-corruption country, its recent decline in the CPI ranking is attributed to:
- Political scandals: Japan has been rocked by several high-profile political scandals in recent years, involving allegations of vote-buying and bribery.
- Weak enforcement: Critics argue that Japan’s anti-corruption laws are not effectively enforced, leading to a culture of impunity for corrupt officials.
- Lack of transparency: There are concerns over the lack of transparency in government decision-making, particularly in areas such as public infrastructure development.
Implications: Seychelles’ top ranking in the CPI for sub-Saharan Africa has several implications:
- Increased investment: A high CPI score attracts foreign investment, as it signals to investors that the country has a low risk of corruption and provides a fair and transparent business environment.
- Improved business environment: A positive CPI ranking enhances the country’s reputation and makes it more attractive to do business with.
- Recognition of Seychelles as a leader: Seychelles’ achievement underscores its commitment to combating corruption and its leadership role in promoting ethical governance in the region.
JETRO Recommendations: JETRO recommends that both Seychelles and Japan continue to strengthen their anti-corruption measures, particularly in the following areas:
- Enforcement and sanctions: Ensuring that anti-corruption laws are effectively enforced and that corrupt individuals are held accountable.
- Public procurement reforms: Improving transparency and competitiveness in public procurement processes.
- Citizen engagement: Encouraging citizen participation in reporting corruption and promoting ethical practices in society.
Conclusion: The Corruption Perception Index ranking is a significant indicator of a country’s commitment to combating corruption. Seychelles’ top ranking in sub-Saharan Africa is a testament to its progress in establishing a transparent and accountable governance system. Japan’s decline, on the other hand, highlights the need for continued vigilance and strengthening of anti-corruption measures. By working together to address these challenges, both countries can strive for higher levels of integrity and good governance.
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日本貿易振興機構 a new article on 2025-02-18 15:15 titled “腐敗認識指数ランキング、セーシェルがサブサハラ・アフリカで初めて日本を上回る”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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