Mali has experienced a slight decline in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index published by Transparency International. The nation now occupies the 136th position globally, dropping from its previous rank of 135th.
In the latest global assessment of 182 nations, Mali achieved a score of 28 out of 100. This shift marks a downward trend despite ongoing initiatives by the government to combat financial malpractice. Notably, Mali currently trails behind its partners in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), specifically Niger and Burkina Faso, in the fight against corruption.
Challenges in governance and transparency
According to Ibrahim Harouna Touré, the regional coordinator for the Human Rights and Peace Observatory in Gao, this ranking highlights deep-seated issues within the country’s administrative framework. He points out a significant lack of public discourse and oversight regarding major national initiatives. “There is a visible absence of debate or critical review concerning large-scale state projects. Furthermore, accountability remains missing in the public procurement process,” he explained.
The civil society representative emphasized that institutional leaders are not providing sufficient reports to the public. He further noted that there is a perception of unchecked governance, where various state bodies appear to manage public finances with minimal external supervision.
Ultimately, these gaps in transparency and the failure to hold officials accountable are identified as the primary drivers behind Mali’s persistent corruption challenges.
