Transparent corruption

The list ranks 159 countries in the world on a so-called CPI scale (Corruption Perception Index) where 10 is the best and one the worst possible mark a state can get. Nordic countries, with Iceland leading, have done very well, as always, while Poland was evaluated the worst among all EU member states, dropping from 67th to 70th place, among countries such as Burkina Faso, Croatia, Egypt, Lesotho, Saudi Arabia and Syria.

"In my opinion it is a warning for Polish politics," Former director of Transparency International in Poland, Julia Pitera, says. "Although, I do not think the situation is ultimately grave yet. [Poland's] position is worse than in 2004, but let us also note that the downward movement is slowing down. In 1999 Poland lost 1.3 points and now 0.1 only, so it is a considerable difference.

We need to do everything to put a stop to this movement fast since it might be an excellent argument against Poland for other EU member states at budget-related meetings," Pitera added.