Corruption is obstructing global efforts to combat climate change, according to a new report published by Transparency International on Tuesday. The anti-corruption watchdog warned that corrupt practices are hindering the adoption of effective policies and weakening environmental governance worldwide.

In its latest "Corruption Perceptions Index" (CPI) for 2024, Transparency International revealed that many countries, including those heavily affected by climate change and those hosting United Nations climate summits, have seen their corruption scores decline.

Brazil and Azerbaijan Among the Worst Performers

Brazil, which is set to host this year’s COP30 climate conference, recorded its lowest-ever CPI score of 34, indicating a worsening corruption landscape. Similarly, Azerbaijan, the host of last year’s UN climate talks, scored just 22, placing it among the most corrupt nations in the rankings.

"Corrupt forces not only shape but often dictate policies and dismantle checks and balances," Transparency International CEO Maira Martini said in a statement.

Wealthy Nations Also See Declines

The report noted that several wealthier nations, which have traditionally played leading roles in global climate efforts, also experienced declines in their corruption scores. Canada, the United States, and New Zealand were among those whose rankings slipped, raising concerns about their commitment to ambitious climate goals and emission reductions.

"These nations hold the greatest responsibility to lead on ambitious climate goals, reduce emissions at scale, and build resilience worldwide," Transparency International stated.

85% of the World Lives Under High Corruption Risk

The CPI ranks countries on a scale from zero (high corruption) to 100 (clean governance). According to the 2024 report, 85% of the global population is living in nations that scored below 50, reflecting widespread governance challenges.

The worst-ranked countries—South Sudan, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, Sudan, Eritrea, and Yemen—are largely affected by conflict and instability. Denmark, on the other hand, maintained its position as the world’s least corrupt nation.

A Global Corruption Crisis

The findings also highlighted that 47 out of the 180 surveyed countries recorded their lowest corruption scores since Transparency International adopted its current methodology in 2012. Countries such as Germany, Austria, Brazil, France, Haiti, and Hungary saw notable declines.

Despite the overall negative trend, some nations, including Kosovo, Maldives, and Kuwait, have made significant progress in improving their corruption scores over the past five years.

The report underscores the urgent need for stronger anti-corruption measures in both developed and developing nations to ensure that climate policies are not compromised by unethical practices.