Latvia’s Corruption Perception Index Improves: 2025 Report & Analysis

Latvia’s perceived level of corruption has seen a marginal improvement, according to the latest Corruption Perception Index (CPI) data for 2025 released by Transparency International. The country’s score rose by one point to 60, returning to the level seen in 2023. However, this increase is occurring within a decade-long pattern of fluctuating results, remaining within a 55-60 point range.

A Modest Gain in a Larger Context

While the one-point increase is noted, “Sabiedrība par atklātību – Delna” suggests it indicates stability rather than substantial progress. Achieving significant improvements and aligning with more economically developed nations will require increased political will and greater engagement from the private sector.

Regional Comparison

Latvia continues to lag behind its Baltic neighbours. Estonia maintains a score of 76, and Lithuania improved by two points, reaching 65. All three Baltic states have shown considerable gains in CPI scores since 2012, but Latvia’s progress has been slower than both Estonia and Lithuania.

Did You Know? A score below 50 on the Corruption Perception Index is considered an indication of serious corruption problems within a country.

Global and European Benchmarks

The global average CPI score is 43, while the European Union average stands at 64. The index assesses how individuals perceive the level of corruption in the public sector, using a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).

Factors Influencing Latvia’s Score

Several factors influence Latvia’s CPI result, including the quality of its democracy and rule of law, government stability, and the ability to implement effective reforms. Concerns remain regarding a lack of transparency in decision-making and delays in implementing legislative initiatives, such as the full implementation of the Law on Transparency of Interest Representation.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

Efficient use of public funds and reducing the shadow economy are identified as key areas for improvement. While strengthening the rule of law is included in the National Development Plan, Latvia is unlikely to meet its targets of 64 points in 2024 and 67 points in 2027 at the current rate of progress.

Expert Insight: The CPI highlights the critical link between perceived corruption and investor confidence. A stable, but not improving, score suggests Latvia may face continued challenges in attracting foreign investment that prioritizes transparency and good governance.

The Importance of Perception

The Corruption Perception Index serves as a key signal to investors regarding the quality of a country’s governance and the security of its investment environment. Suspicions of opaque payments, inefficient allocation of public funds, or limited competition can lead cautious investors to hesitate.

Significant improvements require long-term, coordinated action, including implementing anti-corruption action plans, fostering a culture of whistleblowing, and strengthening both political and business integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Corruption Perception Index measure?

The index measures how people perceive the level of corruption in the public sector, using a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 indicates high corruption and 100 indicates a lack of corruption.

How does Latvia compare to its neighbours?

Latvia currently lags behind both Estonia (76 points) and Lithuania (65 points) in the Corruption Perception Index, although all three countries have shown improvement since 2012.

What factors are hindering Latvia’s progress?

Factors hindering Latvia’s progress include a lack of transparency in decision-making, delays in implementing key legislation, and challenges in efficiently using public funds and reducing the shadow economy.

Given these findings, what steps do you believe are most crucial for Latvia to foster a more transparent and accountable business environment?