The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) measures the perceived levels of public sector corruption worldwide, ranking countries from 0 to 100, with 0 being highly corrupt and 100 being very clean. The index is based on expert assessments and surveys of business people. The higher the score, the more transparent the government is perceived to be.
New Zealand consistently ranks highly in the Transparency International CPI. For example:
- In the 2021 index, New Zealand scored 88 out of 100, ranking first equal with Denmark.
- In the 2022 index, New Zealand scored 87 out of 100, ranking second equal with Denmark, with Denmark coming in at number one.
This high ranking is due to New Zealand’s strong anti-corruption measures, including an independent judiciary, an effective public sector, and robust political and electoral systems.
The importance of transparency cannot be overstated. Transparency is essential for democracy, accountability, and good governance. Transparency helps to prevent corruption and fosters public trust in institutions. When government institutions operate with transparency, citizens can hold them accountable for their actions.
One way to promote transparency is by having an external whistleblower line. An external whistleblower line is a confidential reporting mechanism that allows employees or citizens to report misconduct or corrupt behavior in government institutions. The importance of an external whistleblower line in promoting transparency cannot be overstated. Here are some reasons why:
- Whistleblower lines allow employees or citizens to report misconduct or corrupt behavior without fear of retaliation. This means that individuals can report wrongdoing without fear of losing their job, being demoted, or facing other forms of retaliation.
- Whistleblower lines can help prevent corruption by allowing individuals to report wrongdoing before it becomes a widespread problem. This can save the government money and protect citizens from harm.
- Whistleblower lines can help identify patterns of corruption or misconduct, allowing the government to take action to prevent future incidents.
- Whistleblower lines can help restore public trust in government institutions by showing that the government is committed to transparency and accountability.
The Protected Disclosures Act 2022 (PDA) provides protection to certain whistleblowers who report misconduct or corrupt behavior in government institutions. The PDA protects whistleblowers from retaliation and provides a framework for investigating and addressing complaints.
Talk to us if you require expert assistance regarding your Whistleblower service.
Key Resources:
The Act: Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022
Expert support for your whistleblowers disclosure programme: Whistleblowers Website
Contact 0800 WITNESS or support@whistleblowers.co.nz for further assistance.
Whistleblowers 