Mali’s 2025 corruption ranking decline raises governance concerns

In the latest Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index released in 2025, Mali has slipped one position globally, now ranking 136th out of 182 countries assessed. This drop places the nation behind regional allies Niger and Burkina Faso, both members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

The Corruption Perceptions Index measures how corrupt a country’s public sector is perceived to be, based on expert assessments and opinion surveys. Mali’s score of 28/100 reflects ongoing struggles in governance and anti-corruption efforts, despite government initiatives to address the issue.

why governance transparency remains a challenge

Ibrahim Harouna Touré, regional coordinator of the Human Rights and Peace Observatory in Gao, highlights systemic issues in Mali’s governance framework. He points to a lack of public debate and accountability in major state projects, particularly in public procurement processes.

« There is no real discussion or contradiction in large-scale government initiatives. Public funds are often managed without oversight, and institutions operate with little accountability to citizens », Touré explains.

accountability gaps fuel systemic corruption

According to Touré, the absence of transparent financial oversight allows institutions to misuse public resources without consequences. This culture of impunity undermines trust in public institutions and perpetuates corruption across sectors.

The coordinator emphasizes the need for stronger institutional checks, public scrutiny, and transparent reporting mechanisms to restore faith in Mali’s governance systems and improve its international standing.