Transparency International published its 2025 report on Tuesday, February 10. Albania ranks 91st, dropping 11 positions compared to last year, when it held 80th place among 180 countries.

Kosovo also declined. It now ranks 76th, three places lower than last year’s 73rd position. Its score fell from 44 points to 43 points.

The index measures perceived corruption in the public sector on a scale from 0 (very high corruption) to 100 (very clean). The global ranking shows each country’s position relative to others.

The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) shows that corruption remains a serious threat worldwide. However, it also shows limited signs of progress. Leaders must act to address power abuse and broader factors driving corruption. Weak democratic checks and balances and attacks on independent civil society worsen the problem.

The report ranks 182 countries and territories. It notes that 31 countries have significantly reduced corruption since 2012. Most others have stalled or worsened. The global average dropped to a new low of 42 points, and over two-thirds of countries scored below 50. Citizens face the consequences through underfunded hospitals, unprotected flood zones, and fewer opportunities for youth.

The index covers many forms of public sector corruption. These include bribery, misuse of public funds, personal gain from state functions, ineffective government oversight, excessive bureaucracy, political and nepotistic appointments, lack of transparency in asset declarations, weak whistleblower protection, and state capture or restricted access to public information.

However, the index does not measure citizens’ direct experiences. It also excludes tax evasion, illegal financial flows, money laundering, private sector corruption, or informal economy activities.