The annual index, published by the Berlin-based anti-corruption organisation, ranks 180 countries and territories based on perceived levels of public-sector corruption. Scores range from 0 to 100, where 0 represents highly corrupt and 100 signifies very clean governance.

This year’s findings show that while a small group of countries maintain strong anti-corruption records, a cluster of nations at the bottom of the table continue to struggle with fragile institutions, conflict and weak rule of law.

Countries with the lowest CPI scores in 2025

According to Transparency International :

South Sudan once again sits at the bottom of the rankings, receiving one of the lowest scores globally. Transparency International attributes this to prolonged conflict, weak state institutions and limited public accountability mechanisms.

Years of political instability have hindered efforts to build transparent financial systems, leaving public resources vulnerable to misuse.

Syria and Somalia also rank among the world’s most corrupt countries in the 2025 index. Both nations have endured extended periods of conflict, which Transparency International says significantly erode oversight structures and judicial independence.

In conflict-affected states, emergency spending, limited scrutiny and weakened enforcement systems can create conditions in which corruption flourishes.

Venezuela continues to post one of the lowest CPI scores globally. Transparency International points to weakened democratic institutions, limited transparency in public finances and restrictions on civic space as contributing factors.

Yemen, also affected by prolonged instability and humanitarian crisis, remains among the poorest performers in the index.

North Korea is consistently ranked among the lowest-scoring countries in the CPI. Transparency International cites the absence of transparency, independent oversight and public accountability in the country’s governance system.

While the countries at the bottom of the CPI attract the most attention, Transparency International warns that corruption remains a global challenge. The 2025 report highlights that many countries have either stagnated or declined in recent years.

The global average score remains in the low 40s, suggesting that corruption is far from being brought under control.

The Japanese government has announced a $13.8 million humanitarian aid package for Yemen, targeting urgent needs such as food security, healthcare, and essential services. The support comes as the country continues to face one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions affected by conflict, displacement, and malnutrition. Japan reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to ensure effective aid delivery and support Yemen’s long-term stability.

Intense political efforts aim to ease tensions in Eastern Yemen

Yemen is experiencing increased political engagemen t to ease tensions in its eastern provinces, where rival forces have competed for influence amid fragile security. President Rashad Al-Alimi emphasised that strengthening state institutions is the top priority, describing effective governance as key to stability and lasting peace. The efforts come as local and regional actors push dialogue to prevent escalation in Hadramout and Al-Mahra, where recent frictions have raised concerns over security and cohesion.

Yemen’s future after the STC’s eastward expansion

Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council (STC) is expanding its influence in the eastern governorates of Hadramout and al-Mahra, underscoring the fragmented nature of the country’s decade-long conflict. The advances highlight how power in Yemen now extends beyond the government–Houthi divide, with multiple de facto authorities competing over security and resources. Backed by a regional power, the STC has emerged as the dominant force in the south and parts of the east, even as the government struggles to assert unified control and the economy deteriorates. Against this backdrop, President Rashad al-Alimi described the reported suspension of IMF activities as a warning sign of the political and economic costs of escalating tensions in the east.

Al-Arada discusses latest developments with the U.S. ambassador

President Rashad Mohammed al-Alimi met with U.S. Ambassador Steven Fagin to discuss bilateral relations, recent developments in Yemen’s eastern governorates, and U.S. support for government reforms. The talks also covered counterterrorism cooperation and efforts to deter the Iran-backed Houthis. Al-Alimi praised strong U.S. support for Yemen, including the designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and backing for economic and political reform initiatives.

UN envoy urges de-escalation in Yemen’s eastern provinces

UN Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg has urged immediate de-escalation in the eastern provinces of Hadramout and Al-Mahra, citing concerns over rising instability and its potential impact on local communities and regional security. Speaking in Riyadh, he called on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue, stressing that stability in the east is essential to advancing Yemen’s broader peace process.

At least 37 people were killed after torrential rains triggered flash floods in Morocco’s Atlantic coastal province of Safi, authorities said. State broadcaster SNRT News reported that at least 14 people were hospitalised, including two in intensive care, after heavy rain on Sunday swept cars and debris through the town, about 300km south of Rabat. Local authorities said more than 70 homes and businesses in the historic old city were flooded within an hour, while search and rescue operations and support efforts for affected residents remain ongoing.

Morocco positions itself at the centre of Atlantic geopolitics and long-term reform debates

Morocco is being highlighted as a central actor in discussions around geopolitics , structural reforms, and future-oriented policy planning through the “Perspectives 2030” framework. The Policy Centre’s focus places the country at the heart of the Atlantic Dialogues, underscoring Morocco’s growing role as a convening power between Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic world. This positioning reflects sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic economic planning, and an emphasis on long-term stability and influence in regional and transatlantic affairs.

Morocco–EBRD contracts set to reach a record $1 billion in 2025

Greg Guyett, first Vice-President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, said 2025 is a record year for EBRD contract signings with Morocco, totalling about $1 billion , driven by strong government partnerships and private sector collaboration. He said the bank will continue investing to support business growth, particularly for SMEs, with a focus on energy, industry, water, renewable energy, grid upgrades, and education programs that empower youth and women.

Government explores a new framework to recognise and support women’s unpaid household work

Morocco is examining the development of a new policy framework aimed at addressing women’s unpaid household labour , a long-standing issue in social and economic policy. This initiative signals increased attention to gender equity, social protection, and the economic value of care work that has traditionally gone unrecognised. The exploration of such a framework suggests a broader reform agenda focused on inclusion, labour recognition, and social justice within national development priorities.

Morocco reiterates a firm and fair position on the Sahara issue under King Mohammed VI’s leadership

The head of government has reaffirmed Morocco’s firm and fair stance on the Sahara issue, emphasising continuity and clarity under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. This position reflects the state’s consistent diplomatic narrative, combining sovereignty claims with calls for pragmatic and realistic solutions. The reiteration underscores the centrality of the Sahara issue to Morocco’s foreign policy, national unity, and international engagement strategy.

Ethiopia’s renewed push for access to the Red Sea is sharply escalating tensions with neighbouring Eritrea, with both governments exchanging accusations of military provocations along the border. The briefing warns that “whatever the outcome, war will devastate,” underscoring fears that any miscalculation could trigger conflict reminiscent of past hostilities. The standoff now threatens regional stability, raising concerns among analysts, diplomats, and humanitarian agencies who note that both countries remain deeply sensitive to territorial and security disputes. The dispute is unfolding at a delicate moment for the Horn of Africa, where shifting alliances and competing port access negotiations are increasing geopolitical pressure.

Ethiopia steps up fundamental institutional and legal reforms

The government is advancing far-reaching institutional and legal reforms aimed at strengthening the justice sector and improving governance . According to the briefing, Ethiopia is “implementing reforms to strengthen justice institutions,” changes that could significantly shape internal political dynamics as well as its relationships with regional neighbours, including Eritrea. These reforms, which appear in both the Eritrea and Ethiopia political briefing sections, are described as essential for Ethiopia’s long-term economic development and its aspirations for deeper regional integration. The restructuring of judicial and legal frameworks is also being closely watched as Ethiopia navigates internal fragmentation and post-conflict reconstruction.

National Dialogue Commission intensifies calls for civic and religious involvement

Amid ongoing political fragmentation, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission is urging civic, community, and religious organisations to expand their involvement in helping resolve the country’s mounting challenges . The briefing links this appeal to broader concerns about Ethiopia’s political and economic future, noting that “Ethiopia’s political fragmentation is seen as a major economic bottleneck,” and emphasising that the National Dialogue is a “critical step toward reconciliation.” The Commission warns that sustainable peace will require inclusive participation beyond federal and regional elites, particularly from groups that hold significant moral authority among the population. The success of the national dialogue is increasingly seen as pivotal to preventing renewed conflict and unlocking stalled economic recovery efforts.

Ethiopia’s continental influence highlighted as GERD is hailed as a symbol of unity

Ethiopia’s strategic role within Africa is being elevated on multiple fronts. The CEO of the East Africa Law Society has underscored that Ethiopia remains “central to Africa’s transformation,” pointing to the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a powerful symbol of national self-reliance and unity. The commentary emphasises that Ethiopia’s internal stability and institutional strength will directly shape regional progress, particularly in areas of infrastructure, energy, and economic integration. This recognition comes as Ethiopia also assumes a leadership role within the UN-ECA Committee on Social Policy, Poverty, and Gender, alongside Eswatini and other African states—a sign of its enduring diplomatic influence despite domestic challenges.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat has criticised the opposition’s constitutional challenge, calling it a deliberate attempt to destabilise his administration. He urged political actors to respect the democratic mandate given by the people and focus on maintaining political stability. The PM’s statement came amid heightened tensions surrounding recent legislative changes, reflecting his broader call for unity and responsible governance in Vanuatu’s evolving democracy.

PM defends people’s vote on constitutional reforms

In response to criticism, Prime Minister Napat defended constitutional reforms aimed at ending Vanuatu’s recurring political instability. He emphasised that the amendments emerged from a grassroots democratic process, reflecting the will of the people rather than elite political interests. The reforms seek to strengthen governmental stability and reduce frequent changes in leadership that have historically hampered policy continuity. Napat underscored that the reforms symbolise a collective effort to build a stronger, more resilient democracy.

Australia and Vanuatu agree to $500m deal, but details remain scarce

Vanuatu has signed a $500 million agreement with Australia, focusing on economic transformation, labour mobility, and security cooperation. While officials hailed it as a major step toward deeper regional ties, few details about implementation have been disclosed. The deal aligns with Canberra’s broader Pacific engagement strategy, reflecting its efforts to strengthen partnerships in the face of growing strategic competition in the region. Observers note that transparency and equitable benefit-sharing will be key to the agreement’s success.

Vanuatu maintains non-alignment policy in Nakamal Agreement

Despite its growing ties with Australia, Vanuatu reaffirmed its non-alignment policy under the Nakamal Agreement, emphasising national sovereignty and independence in foreign affairs. Prime Minister Napat reiterated that while partnerships with countries like Australia are vital for development, Vanuatu remains committed to neutrality in international politics. This stance reinforces the nation’s long-standing position of avoiding entanglement in great-power rivalries, particularly between Western allies and China in the Pacific.

Tanna recognized as birthplace of Vanuatu’s independence movement

In a moment of national pride, President Nikenike Vurobaravu formally recognised Tanna Island as the birthplace of Vanuatu’s independence movement. The commemoration highlighted the island’s historical significance in mobilising local leaders and communities during the fight for sovereignty. The event served as a reminder of Vanuatu’s enduring commitment to unity and national identity, even as the country navigates contemporary challenges in governance and development.

A recent ranking shows that Barcelona FC sits at the top of the debt table, owing around €1.92 billion, followed by Tottenham Hotspur with roughly €1.36 billion. Other clubs like Everton, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Juventus are also carrying hundreds of millions in debt.

It’s a reminder that while football may be booming as entertainment, its business model is creaking under financial pressure.

Barcelona’s mountain of debt

Barcelona’s money troubles aren’t new. Years of high player wages, costly transfers, and the massive Camp Nou stadium renovation have left the club deep in the red. According to The Guardian , Barcelona’s debt has ballooned to nearly €2 billion, even as it tries to modernise its facilities and stay competitive in La Liga.

The club’s leaders insist the spending will pay off once the new stadium starts generating revenue. But until then, they’re walking a tightrope, balancing ambition with survival.

Tottenham’s pricey dream

Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, is still feeling the cost of its new £1 billion stadium, which opened in 2019. Chairman Daniel Levy admitted the club has been in talks with investors to manage the growing debt load, after reporting an £868 million loss earlier this year

The stadium was meant to turn Tottenham into a global powerhouse, hosting concerts, NFL games, and other big events, but high interest rates and rising costs have made it tough to get ahead.

According to Reuters, many top clubs across Europe are facing similar problems. Spiralling player wages, expensive transfers, and uneven broadcasting revenues have left even the richest teams struggling to balance their books.

Economists have warned that football’s growing debt, especially in Spain, England , and Italy, could threaten the sport’s long-term stability. If clubs can’t pay back what they owe, they might have to sell players, raise ticket prices, or rely on outside investors, changing the game in ways fans might not like.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed a diverse group of princes, scholars, ministers, and citizens at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, where the gathering began with a recitation from the Holy Quran. Discussions centred on national and regional developments, reflecting the Crown Prince’s ongoing engagement with Saudi society. These regular interactions highlight the government’s commitment to open dialogue and to reinforcing unity within the Kingdom’s leadership and people.

Saudi Arabia and the United Nations discuss ways to revive Libya’s political roadmap

In a show of active diplomacy, Saudi Arabia met with United Nations representatives to explore ways to reinvigorate Libya’s political roadmap. Talks focused on unifying national institutions and organising elections to ensure long-term stability. The UN commended Riyadh’s support for peace and development, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing role as a mediator in regional affairs. This engagement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader foreign policy objective of promoting security and development across the Middle East and North Africa.

Crown Prince congratulates Japan’s new premier

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended congratulations to Sanae Takaichi, who recently became Japan’s first female prime minister. The Crown Prince’s message acknowledged the significance of the milestone in Japan’s political landscape and expressed Saudi Arabia’s readiness to strengthen bilateral relations. The congratulatory note reflects the Kingdom’s increasing focus on building ties with global partners beyond its traditional regional alliances.

Saudi Arabia reaffirms support for global security and peace

During a recent cabinet meeting chaired by the Crown Prince, the Saudi government reiterated its commitment to regional and international cooperation for global peace and stability. The meeting included discussions on Vision 2030 projects , which aim to diversify the Saudi economy and boost innovation, as well as the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza. This emphasis on diplomacy and aid highlights Riyadh’s strategic balancing of internal development and external engagement.

Crown Prince briefs cabinet on Gaza following call with Macron

Following a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman briefed the Saudi cabinet on the latest developments in Gaza. The cabinet reiterated its call for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in the region, while also reviewing ongoing Vision 2030 initiatives. This discussion illustrates Saudi Arabia’s dual approach—advocating for peace in global conflicts while maintaining a steady focus on domestic modernisation and reform.

It’s a simple yet powerful visualisation that reframes how we think about influence, identity, and demography in a region where population trends are becoming as geopolitically significant as politics itself.

This demographic approach exposes a fascinating balance: while France, Italy, and the United Kingdom each form roughly one “population bloc” of about 80 million, a cluster of Central and Eastern European nations must combine to reach a similar total.

Europe’s demographic puzzle

Europe’s total population stands at about 744 million , according to Worldometer . But beneath that large number lies a stark reality: the continent’s population is ageing and shrinking in many regions.

Data from Eurostat shows that the EU’s natural population change — the difference between births and deaths — is now negative. In 2024, deaths outnumbered births across most EU countries, with migration becoming the only reason the population continues to grow.

In its Demography of Europe 2025 report , Eurostat revealed that the share of people aged 80 and over has risen from 3.8% in 2004 to 6.1% in 2024, and the median age across the bloc has climbed to nearly 45 years. The implications are profound — shrinking workforces, heavier social welfare burdens, and economic slowdowns that threaten long-term stability.

Migration as the balancing act

With declining fertility rates and an ageing population, migration has become Europe’s demographic lifeline. According to Reuters , the EU reached a record population of 450.4 million in 2024, but only because of net migration gains of about 2.3 million, offsetting a natural loss of 1.3 million.

Without immigration, Europe’s population would already be in steady decline.

This reality has made migration both a necessity and a political flashpoint. Countries like Germany, France, and Spain depend on migrant labour to sustain their economies, while Eastern and Southern European nations are grappling with emigration, the steady outflow of young workers seeking better opportunities abroad.

Argentina has endured decades of economic instability, defaulting on sovereign debt three times since 2001 and repeatedly falling short on IMF agreements. Milei, a self-styled libertarian reformer, has sought to stabilise the peso, cut spending, and rebuild confidence after his party’s recent election setback triggered capital flight. The peso has lost over 90% of its value in the past five years, while inflation, although sharply down to 34% this year from 289% in 2024, remains among the world’s highest according to the IMF and the Argentine Central Bank .

The U.S. plan, which includes access to the Treasury’s Exchange Stabilisation Fund, would supplement Argentina’s $20 billion IMF program secured earlier this year.

The move marks a striking reversal for President Donald Trump , who has cut foreign aid elsewhere while confronting Brazil, Mexico, and Venezuela. In Argentina, however, Trump is doubling down on Milei, whose pro-market agenda and public praise of Washington have made him a rare regional ally.

The plan has drawn criticism at home, with Senator Elizabeth Warren warning that it amounts to a bailout of “a political ally and his global investors before an election.” Economists, including Brad Setser of the Council on Foreign Relations, caution that the U.S. risks repeating the IMF’s experience of lending heavily to Argentina with little chance of repayment.

Washington’s $20 billion swap line would eclipse Argentina’s existing $18 billion agreement with China’s central bank, signalling a strategic push to counter Beijing’s growing financial footprint in Latin America.

For Milei, the U.S. backing offers both short-term stability and political cover.

The Chadian government has finalised an agreement with the Comité Diffa Al-Watan de Miski, a group representing local interests in the Miski region. This deal is seen as a significant step toward stabilising the resource-rich area, which has faced tensions over mining rights and local autonomy. Analysts suggest that the agreement could bring greater government oversight to artisanal gold mining operations, while also addressing long-standing community grievances about marginalisation and environmental degradation.

Weapons cache displayed in Goz-Beïda

Authorities in the Sila region showcased a large cache of war weapons to the press in Goz-Beïda. The arms, reportedly seized during recent security operations, are believed to have originated from cross-border smuggling networks operating near Sudan. The public display underscores Chad’s ongoing security challenges in its eastern regions, where porous borders have allowed weapons trafficking to fuel instability and armed group activity.

New coordination committee for women’s economic empowerment

In an important development for gender equality, Chad has launched a national coordination committee aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment. The initiative seeks to harmonise efforts across government ministries, NGOs, and international partners to expand women’s access to credit, training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Observers see this as aligning with Chad’s broader goals under the African Union’s Agenda 2063 to boost inclusive growth and women’s participation in the economy.

Agreement with Miski stakeholders seen as conflict prevention

Political commentators are highlighting the Miski agreement as more than just a local settlement, framing it as a tool for conflict prevention in a historically restive region. By formalising cooperation with local committees, the government hopes to integrate community leaders into national governance structures, thereby reducing the likelihood of violent flare-ups over land and mining disputes.

Sila Region Security Crackdown Highlights Regional Risks

The recent weapons seizure in Sila also illustrates the fragile security environment in Chad’s borderlands. Experts warn that instability in neighbouring Sudan and the presence of transnational armed groups pose risks that require sustained government vigilance. The crackdown is part of a broader campaign to secure Chad’s borders ahead of upcoming local elections, ensuring that political processes are not disrupted by violence.