This places Greece significantly above the European average, where 68% of Europeans view corruption as widespread in their own countries. Following Greece, the highest perceptions of corruption are found in Portugal (96%), Malta (95%), and Slovenia (95%). In contrast, the lowest levels are reported in Finland (18%), Denmark (26%), and Luxembourg (43%).
Across Europe, 27% of people reported personal encounters with corruption in their daily lives, while 75% indicated that the close relationship between business and politics fosters an environment conducive to corruption.
Perceptions of corruption in Greece
In Greece, nearly all citizens (98%) see corruption as omnipresent, with half (53%) noting an increase in recent years. Another 38% believe the situation has remained unchanged, and only 5% think it has improved. The corresponding EU averages are 41%, 43%, and 9%, respectively.
Specifically, 70% of Greeks believe corruption is prevalent in political parties, with 68% asserting that politicians use their power for personal gain. Additionally, 67% perceive corruption among officials who award public contracts, and 63% see it in those issuing building permits.
Furthermore, 24% think corruption exists within private businesses, and an overwhelming 89% believe it permeates the healthcare system.
Regarding supervisory authorities, 60% of Greeks suspect corruption, while 29% see it in banks and other financial institutions. Additionally, 57% believe there is corruption within the tax authorities, 56% in the police force, and 38% in the judicial system.
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