Corruption continues to pose a significant challenge throughout the Pacific, as highlighted in the recently released 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) by Transparency International. The index indicates that despite the commitment from Pacific leaders to bolster good governance through the 2020 Teieniwa Vision, progress in curbing corruption remains insufficient.
New Zealand and Australia maintain relatively high rankings with scores of 81 and 76, respectively, yet a troubling long-term decline in their standings since 2012 is evident. In New Zealand, this downward trend is attributed to inadequate action on anti-corruption legislation and insufficient resources for investigative and prosecutorial efforts. Australia is urged to enhance its anti-corruption measures by establishing a whistleblower protection authority, implementing stricter lobbying regulations, and reinforcing its National Anti-Corruption Commission.
The Smaller Island Developing States in the Pacific reflect troubling scores, with Papua New Guinea at 26, the lowest in the region, signaling ongoing struggles to strengthen anti-corruption institutions and mitigate financial and political integrity risks. Other nations like Vanuatu (47), Solomon Islands (44), and Fiji (55) have demonstrated minimal change over recent years, revealing a lack of intervention against corruption, coupled with weak oversight and governance concerns.
To advance toward greater transparency and adhere to the commitments outlined in the Teieniwa Vision, a collective effort among political leaders, civil society, and regional partners is essential. These Smaller Island Developing States heavily depend on foreign aid to meet development goals, necessitating increased support from wealthier nations alongside stronger governance and a commitment to transparency and accountability from their leaders. Not only will this bolster the fight against corruption, but it will also enhance the effectiveness of foreign aid.
Kelera Serelini-Varawa, Pacific Regional Engagement and Advocacy Lead at Transparency International, emphasized the urgency of addressing corruption: “The Pacific cannot afford to let corruption undermine its future. Pacific leaders should move beyond statements and prioritize meaningful action to combat corruption, uphold integrity, and strengthen democracy.”
Australia and New Zealand, with their robust anti-corruption records, have the opportunity to lead the region positively. There is a pressing need for larger partners to take decisive action, empower civil society, and for Pacific leaders to act resolutely to foster a resilient environment characterized by transparency, integrity, and public trust.
The CPI evaluates 182 countries and territories based on perceived public sector corruption, scoring them from zero (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). New Zealand and Australia rank fourth and 12th globally, respectively, while Papua New Guinea’s score has slipped five points since the previous year, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in governance and anti-corruption efforts in the region.
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