Belgium has dropped out of the top 20 in Transparency International’s (TI) annual Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), according to a report by De Standaard.
Each year, TI compiles the index based on surveys and assessments from 13 sources, including the World Bank, the OECD, and the Council of Europe. The index measures public sector corruption perception, scoring countries between 0 and 100—where 100 signifies minimal corruption and high transparency, and 0 indicates severe corruption.
In the latest ranking, Belgium scored 69, placing it 22nd out of 180 countries. This marks a decline from 2023, when it ranked 16th with a score of 73.
Growing public concern over corruption
The issue of corruption has been increasingly troubling for Belgians. A Eurobarometer survey conducted last summer found that two-thirds of respondents believed corruption was widespread in the country. TI’s findings highlight particular concerns regarding the government’s use of public funds—especially in public works—amid fears that decision-making lacks objectivity. Additionally, the close ties between politicians and private companies have raised eyebrows.
Marc Beyens, deputy director of TI Belgium, described the downward trend as concerning. “The data already indicated a negative trajectory even before recent money laundering allegations against former EU Commissioner Didier Reynders emerged, or the revelations about abuses at the CPAS (social welfare agency) in Anderlecht,” he stated.
“The public perception is that integrity in government is deteriorating,” Beyens added.
Broader European decline and calls for reform
Belgium is not alone in this decline—19 other Western European countries also saw their CPI scores drop last year. Nations with more stringent transparency regulations, stronger whistleblower protections, and tighter public finance controls tend to perform better. Denmark continues to lead the rankings, followed by Finland and Singapore.
Beyens emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and integrity. “These principles are fundamental to a healthy democracy and a strong economy. Yet, we see no mention of integrity or corruption in the coalition agreement. Hopefully, that will change.” Photo by Kiwiev, Wikimedia commons.