In Transparency International’s latest measurement for perceived corruption in 2022, Sweden drops to 83 points out of a possible 100. Despite the loss, Sweden is still high on the list among the 180 countries included in the compilation, but ranks worst among its Nordic neighbours.
– It is a serious phenomenon because it bypasses the core of democracy, says Ulrik Åshuvud, chairman of Transparency International.
Serious social trend
At the same time, several Swedish companies appear in International Penalty League for Corruption. Two of them qualify for the global top ten list: Ericsson and Telia.
According to Louise Brown, who was previously chairman of Transparency International, but now works as an anti-corruption expert at the consulting firm FCG, Sweden’s new position on the corruption index may point to a serious social trend.
Among other things, she highlights the study Nordic Business Ethics Survey 2022which was answered by 5,000 people, and which shows that the majority of employees in Swedish and Nordic companies have witnessed ethical irregularities.
– In Sweden, we have a marked increase in various types of fraud, growing organized crime. It is very important to understand that bribery and corruption are part of this, says Brown.
What is this development due to?
– We typically have very high trust in Sweden and people shy away from checking and reviewing. It is relied upon that the information provided is correct. Unfortunately, we are in a situation where internal governance and control regarding the fight against corruption is neglected in both the public and private sectors. If we do not act now on this, the situation risks worsening.
Anti-corruption investigation is closed
Last year, the former Swedish government appointed an investigation into corruption and unauthorized influence in public activities and business. Recently, the government announced that the investigation is being scrapped.
The decision has met with criticism both from the opposition and Transparency International.
– The government should as soon as possible restart the investigation into unauthorized influence and corruption, which was closed completely without warning last week with the explanation that they wanted to “take a step back”, says Ulrik Åshuvud.