Corruption Perception in Balkan Countries: An Update
The Balkan region, comprising numerous nations with rich histories and cultures, also faces the challenge of governance and corruption. This article delves into the current state of corruption perception among Balkan countries, drawing from various sources and metrics, including the Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).
Which Balkan Country Has the Most Corruption?
As of the latest data from August 2023, Bosnia and Herzegovina often ranks among the most corrupt countries in the Balkan region according to various indices, including the CPI compiled by TI. While other countries such as North Macedonia, Albania, and Kosovo face significant corruption issues, Bosnia and Herzegovina frequently stands out due to its complex political structure, ethnic divisions, and lack of effective governance.
Current Corruption Perception in Balkan Countries
According to the Global Corruption Perception Study conducted annually by TI, several Balkan countries are identified as severely affected by corruption. The most corrupt countries include Moldova, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia, Serbia, Kosovo, and Turkey. On the other hand, countries such as Croatia, Romania, Greece, Bulgaria, and Montenegro are considered less corrupt. However, none of the Balkan countries listed are among the top 50 of the least corrupt countries globally.
Comparing Corruption Levels in the Balkans
Here is a breakdown of the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for each Balkan country from 2019:
- Albania: 35
- North Macedonia: 35
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: 36
- Kosovo: 36
- Serbia: 39
- Turkey: 39
- Bulgaria: 43
- Romania: 44
- Montenegro: 45
- Croatia: 47
- Greece: 48
- Slovenia: 60
Although these countries lost one or two points since the previous year, there is a clear grouping: Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo (Group 1), Serbia and Turkey (Group 2), Bulgaria and Romania (Group 3), and Montenegro, Croatia, and Greece (Group 4). Slovenia, despite being geographically closer to the Balkans, is included due to its corruption index.
Challenges and Trends
Despite the persistent challenges, some progress has been made. For instance, public pressure in Romania has succeeded in reducing corruption levels, although they remain high. In the case of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the complex political landscape and ethnic divisions continue to impede effective governance and anti-corruption efforts.
The fight against corruption in the Balkans is ongoing, and while no single country can be labeled as the 'winning' one, there is genuine recognition that a collective effort is required to address these issues. The region faces strong competition, and each country must continue to strive for better governance and transparency to improve the overall corruption perception index.
In conclusion, while the Balkan region faces significant challenges, efforts to combat corruption are ongoing. By staying informed and supporting transparency, the nations of the Balkans can work towards a more corruption-free future.
Keywords: corruption, Balkans, Transparency International, CPI, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Serbia, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Montenegro, Croatia, Greece, Slovenia