In a region stricken by violent conflicts and dictatorships, corruption remains endemic in the Arab states while assaults on freedom of expression, press freedoms and civil society continue to escalate. In this environment, it is no surprise that 19 of 21 Arab states score below 50 in the Corruption Perceptions Index for 2017, which captures levels of corruption in the public sector. The political systems in Arab states are controlled by ruling elites who abuse power for personal gain at the expense of millions of disadvantaged citizens. Extensive research shows that long-term reduction in corruption requires the full and active participation of civil society and media. Ongoing wars and conflictsThe worst performing Arab states in the index – Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen – all suffer from weak public institutions, internal conflict and deep instability.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 21, 2018 18:05 UTC