𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝟐𝟎 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐱

….. 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒔 𝒈𝒍𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒍 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝒌𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔

By Tashi Tshewang

Bhutan has been ranked 18th out of 182 countries in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2025, achieving a score of 71, according to the Anti Corruption Commission. The ranking places Bhutan among the top 20 countries globally, the highest ranked country in South Asia, and fifth in the Asia Pacific region. The country’s score is well above the global average of 42 and the Asia Pacific regional average of 45, reflecting sustained trust in its public institutions and governance systems.

The Corruption Perceptions Index 2025 aggregates multiple independent expert and business surveys, including data from the Bertelsmann Transformation Index, the World Bank Country Policy and Institutional Framework Assessment, the Varieties of Democracy Project, and the Global Insight Country Risk Ratings. Bhutan’s scores from these sources indicate that anti corruption policies are comprehensive, legal and institutional arrangements are well established, and enforcement action is generally credible.

The World Bank Country Policy and Institutional Framework Assessment gave Bhutan a score of 4.5 out of 6 for transparency, accountability, and corruption in the public sector. The Varieties of Democracy Political Corruption Index shows low levels of executive and legislative corruption, while public sector theft and corrupt exchanges remain limited.

According to the Commission, Bhutan’s CPI score has remained largely stable over the past several years, indicating consolidation of integrity gains. However, the report also identifies emerging challenges in administrative discretion, service delivery, judicial decision making, and large public expenditure projects. While systemic corruption remains low, these perception driven risks are shaping public views on governance integrity and require targeted interventions.

The Commission stated that Bhutan’s continued strong performance reflects robust oversight mechanisms, rule based administrative systems, and consistent application of anti corruption policies. Moving forward, sustaining the ranking will require strengthening transparency, predictability, and public confidence in everyday governance processes, particularly at points of interaction between citizens and public institutions.

A civil servant from Thimphu said, “The system here is really good. We are ranked 18th globally in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) with a score of 71, placing us among the top 20 countries worldwide. Our anti-corruption policies are comprehensive and ensure transparency and accountability in public institutions. This is a major achievement, and it reflects the strength of our governance system.”

He reflected on the practical reality of implementing these systems. While Bhutan’s CPI score showcases the effectiveness of the system in theory, the challenge lies in the way it is applied on the ground. Inefficiencies in handling administrative processes can undermine public perception, making it seem as though there are systemic issues, even when corruption is not a factor.

He continued, “However, it’s not the system itself that’s problematic, it’s the human element in managing these processes. Business owners often face significant delays when applying for clearances whether it’s for location, environmental impact, or security checks. These processes can take up to 45 days, and this extended waiting time discourages potential investors and entrepreneurs from moving forward. While the framework is solid, it’s these delays that often create the perception of inefficiency or corruption.”

Jigme Norbu, an influencer, said, “We don’t have too much regulation from the government, which makes it easier for those wanting to start a business. The system is simple, and we all know it, so we just have to follow it. The real challenge is in the transparency. There’s not much communication during the process everything is usually told at the beginning and the end, but in the middle, there’s no information. This lack of ongoing transparency makes it difficult to trust unless we see and hear for ourselves.”

Reflecting on Bhutan’s standing in global anti corruption efforts, he noted that despite the country’s strong performance in the 2025 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, where Bhutan ranked 18th globally with a score of 71, gaps in the flow of information can still affect trust between the public and the government. The CPI reflects strong public sector integrity, but transparency in implementation remains critical.

He continued, “Business without integrity means there is no peace. For the sake of peace and honesty, integrity is a must. Bhutan is developing quickly, and as businesses grow, maintaining trust and ethical practices becomes more important. The CPI’s ranking shows that we have a strong foundation, but to build a future of sustainable growth, businesses must continue to prioritize transparency and integrity.”

Thinley Dorji, who runs a clothing shop, shared, “Running clothes shop here has been a rewarding experience. The government provides a good environment for entrepreneurs, with minimal regulations. Thanks to Bhutan’s strong governance and public sector integrity, as shown by our impressive 18th ranking in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, it’s easier to trust the system and make investments.”

He spoke about the positive aspects of the system. Bhutan’s CPI score of 71 places the country among the top performers globally, reinforcing public confidence in the country’s institutions. The government’s commitment to transparency and anti corruption efforts directly benefits local businesses, creating an environment where entrepreneurs can operate without fear of corruption or undue bureaucracy.

He continued, “Transparency is one of the key reasons why I feel confident in my business. With Bhutan’s continued focus on anti-corruption measures, I know I can rely on clear processes, and that’s what encourages more people to invest in businesses here. It’s an exciting time for Bhutan’s economy.”