Transparency International’s 2024 CPI highlights Uruguay as the top performer in the Americas with a score of 76. Other countries, especially Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, are struggling greatly. Despite some improvements, many Latin American nations are facing significant corruption-related challenges that undermine governance and environmental efforts.
Uruguay has secured the top position in Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for the Americas, scoring 76 points. This ranking is attributed to Uruguay’s strong democratic institutions, high transparency levels, significant citizen engagement, and effective environmental governance. The report coincides with President Luis Lacalle Pou’s last month in office before being succeeded by opposition leader Yamandú Orsi on March 1.
While some countries like Guatemala and the Dominican Republic have improved, others such as Mexico, Paraguay, and Chile have experienced notable declines in their rankings. Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela sit at the bottom of the list, faced with rampant organized crime and severe human rights violations. These issues hinder efforts to combat corruption effectively in the region.
The prevalence of corruption in Latin America creates significant challenges for environmental protections, as criminal organizations exploit frail institutions for illegal activities such as logging and wildlife trafficking. Political and economic insiders frequently manipulate environmental policies to benefit personally, as demonstrated in recent cases in Peru.
Despite 25 Latin American nations endorsing the Escazu Agreement, the region remains a perilous place for environmental defenders. The report notes recent murders in Honduras tied to business interests and organized crime, underscoring the risks involved in advocating for environmental justice.
Argentina and El Salvador are tightening public information restrictions, while Guyana struggles with transparency and law enforcement issues. The weak judicial systems in both Mexico and the United States impede effective corruption enforcement, leading to Mexico’s noticeable decline due to inaction on major cases.
Transparency International’s Regional Advisor for the Americas, Luciana Torchiaro, highlighted the dire state of the fight against corruption in Latin America, emphasizing the political, economic, and social repercussions. She lamented the few countries making significant progress while others, like Brazil and Chile, face historic lows. The long-standing absence of strong anti-corruption measures has led to reduced democratic integrity and increased impunity across the region.
Uruguay leads the Americas in combating corruption according to Transparency International’s CPI, showcasing strong democratic practices and citizen involvement. Meanwhile, regional declines in corruption perception underline a troubling trend, with several countries facing severe issues that challenge governance and environmental protection. The data highlights systemic corruption and a need for robust judicial reform to improve enforcement and protect democratic institutions.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
