THIS is with reference to the report “Transparency International improves Pakistan’s ranking” (Jan 31), according to which the country’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score for 2023 improved to 29 out of 100 from 27 a year earlier, and the ranking improved to 133 from 140 in 2022 on a list of 180 countries. However, the quantum of improvement underscores the need for introspection rather than celebration. It calls for a strategic reassessment and enhanced reforms to elevate Pakistan’s standing and governance.

As the CPI list shows, the countries with strong rule of law, really well-functioning democratic institutions, effective governance, transparency, and relevant accountability mechanisms sit on the top of the table, like Denmark (score 90), Finland (87), New Zealand (85) and Norway (84).

Conversely, the countries, characterised by conflict, restricted freedoms, weak democratic institutions, inadequate justice systems, bad governance as well as societal challenges, inequality and injustice sit at the bottom of the table, such as Somalia (11), Venezuela, Syria and South Sudan (each scoring 13).

Eradicating corruption is a founda-tional step towards ensuring equitable distribution of resources. For sustainable development and better international relations, this fight against corruption must be prioritised. Pakistan can engage with top-performing countries on the CPI through diplomatic channels and international cooperation forums.

By initiating dialogues, exchanging best practices, and seeking technical assistance or joint anti-corruption initiatives, Pakistan can learn from their successful strategies to improve the level of governance, transparency and accountability within its own systems.

Pakistan can also draw inspiration from Armenia, Ukraine and Uzbekistan that have significantly improved their CPI rankings through robust anti-corruption measures and reforms.

Adopting such proven strategies could be a key for Pakistan to strengthen its corruption control mechanisms.

Enhancing proper access to justice is of fundamental value, as it underpins accountability and deters impunity. By streamlining legal processes, broadening the definition of corruption victims, and empowering civil society to champion corruption cases, Pakistan can build a more inclusive and effective justice system.

While Pakistan’s recent anti-corruption progress is encouraging, tackling grand corruption demands bolder measures. This can involve collaborative investi-gations, asset recovery, and high-profile prosecutions.

By empowering both formal and informal systems, we will create a more robust and impactful shield against corruption.

The recent improvement in CPI scores underscores the potential for positive change with committed governance.

This progress marks a crucial step towards enhancing the nation’s image and fostering an environment conducive to business, investment and overall societal wellbeing.

It is a reminder that, although the journey to eradicate corruption is arduous, it is attainable with persistent efforts, learning from global best practices, and properly reinforcing the rule of law as well as due transparency. This momentum must be maintained and amplified as we move ahead to unlock Pakistan’s full potential.

Qamar Bashir
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, February 4th, 2024