Mali drops in Transparency International’s 2025 corruption index
Mali has slipped one position in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index released by Transparency International, now ranking 136th out of 182 countries surveyed. With a score of 28 out of 100, the country has fallen behind neighboring Niger and Burkina Faso, both members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
This decline follows a previously steady position, highlighting growing concerns over governance and accountability in the country. While Malian authorities claim to be taking steps to combat corruption, critics argue that systemic issues persist.
What does Mali’s ranking reveal about its anti-corruption efforts?
The Corruption Perceptions Index evaluates nations based on perceived levels of public sector corruption. Mali’s score of 28/100 places it in the lower tier globally, signaling significant challenges in transparency and integrity. Despite government initiatives, the country continues to struggle with accountability in public spending and procurement processes.
Civil society voices on governance failures
Ibrahim Harouna Touré, Regional Coordinator of the Human Rights and Peace Observatory in Gao, points to deep-rooted issues in Mali’s governance structure. « There is no debate, no scrutiny over major state projects. Public tenders lack transparency, and accountability is virtually nonexistent », he states. Touré emphasizes that institutions operate with excessive autonomy, often managing public funds without proper oversight.
He further explains that the absence of robust checks and balances fosters an environment where corruption thrives. « The impression is one of unchecked governance. Each institution handles public funds as it sees fit, with little regard for citizen accountability », he adds.
These concerns underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to restore public trust and improve Mali’s standing in future rankings.
