Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) reveals that corruption is significantly undermining global efforts to combat climate change. The report, released on Tuesday, indicates that bribery and abuse of power in numerous countries are obstructing climate protection measures.
The CPI, which ranks 180 countries based on perceived levels of public sector corruption, found that over two-thirds of nations scored below 50 out of 100, indicating a high level of corruption. This corruption is impacting climate-vulnerable countries and international climate conferences.
Specifically, the report cites examples such as the United States, where an energy company allegedly paid $60 million to influence policy decisions and slow the expansion of renewable energy. It also mentions Russia, where millions of dollars from a Global Environment Facility project were reportedly embezzled. Libya's vulnerability to extreme weather was also highlighted, exacerbated by corruption and the failure to maintain critical infrastructure like dams.
The watchdog urges governments and multilateral organizations to prioritize anti-corruption measures within their climate protection strategies, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in climate finance.