Perception of Corruption in Pakistan Declines, Transparency International Survey Reveals

Islamabad: A new survey report released by **Transparency International Pakistan** indicates a significant improvement in transparency and a decline in the perception of corruption across the country.

The **National Corruption Perception Survey (NCPS) 2025** shows that **66% of Pakistanis reported not having to pay any bribe for government-related work in the past 12 months**. Additionally, **60% of respondents acknowledged that the government has strengthened the economy through the IMF agreement and exiting the FATF grey list**.

The report further reveals mixed perceptions regarding economic conditions: **43% of respondents reported an improvement in purchasing power**, while **57% noted a decline**. It also found that **51% of participants believe that NGOs, hospitals, laboratories, educational institutions, and other welfare organizations benefiting from tax exemptions should not charge the public**, and **53% feel such organizations should disclose donors and donations publicly**.

The survey was conducted from **September 22 to 29, 2025**, with **4,000 participants nationwide**, compared to 1,600 in 2023. Among respondents, **55% were men, 43% women, and 2% transgender**, while **59% were from urban areas and 41% from rural areas**. Transparency International emphasized that the survey measures public perception of corruption, not actual corruption levels.

According to the report, **police rank highest in perceived corruption**, followed by tenders and procurement, judiciary, electricity and energy, and health. Notably, **public perception of the police showed a 6% positive shift**, reflecting improvements in institutional reforms and service delivery.

The survey also highlighted improvements in public perception regarding **education, land and property, local government, and taxation**. Major causes of corruption identified include lack of transparency, limited access to information, and delays in judicial decisions. **59% of respondents perceived provincial governments as more corrupt**.

To curb corruption, respondents emphasized **strengthening accountability, limiting discretionary powers, reinforcing the Right to Information laws, and digitizing public services**. Furthermore, **83% advocated for strict regulations or a complete ban on political party funding from businesses**, **42% supported stronger protection laws**, and **70% were unaware of any official corruption reporting mechanism**.

The survey reflects growing public optimism regarding transparency and government efforts to combat corruption in Pakistan.