The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) reveals a concerning trend across the Americas, where widespread corruption is thwarting efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment. Despite having some relatively stable democracies with high levels of transparency, such as Uruguay, Canada, and Barbados, many countries in the region struggle with corruption, human rights abuses, and impunity for environmental crimes.
The index shows that countries like Haiti (16), Nicaragua (14), and Venezuela (10) have the lowest scores, while states ravaged by organized crime and human rights abuses dominate the bottom of the list. The absence of effective measures to control corruption leads to an environment where economic and political elites exploit public affairs, human rights violations are tolerated, and environmental policies are manipulated for personal gain.
Organized crime groups, including those involved in wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, and mining, benefit from corruption and money laundering, while political and economic elites engage in procurement fraud, bribery, and manipulation of environmental policies. In some countries, such as Peru, the modification to forestry laws has been criticized for responding to particular interests and encouraging illegal deforestation.
The fight against corruption is not just about exposing wrongdoing but also about holding power accountable. Transparency International emphasizes the need for increased transparency mechanisms, enhanced investigations and sanctions, and greater regulation of accountants, bankers, and lawyers who enable corrupt actors and criminals to hide their dirty money.
With top-scoring countries like Uruguay leading by example, it’s crucial that these nations support global anti-corruption efforts. By sharing best practices and technologies, they can help strengthen public institutions and combat corruption more effectively. Ultimately, decisive action is needed to overcome corruption and build more peaceful, resilient, and sustainable societies across the Americas.
Source: https://www.transparency.org/en/news/cpi-2024-americas-corruption-fuels-environmental-crime-impunity-across-region