The United Kingdom’s exposure to corruption is rising

Significance

This reflects long-standing dynamics linked to the United Kingdom’s role in facilitating illicit global financial flows. In addition, recent political developments under Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government have fuelled the perception that UK rule of law standards are declining.

Impacts

• Surging real estate prices and increasing wealth inequality facilitate money laundering.
• Academic freedom in the United Kingdom is potentially impacted by the increase in private donations to universities.
• The ruling Conservative Party is particularly vulnerable to charges of corruption, given its reliance on private funding.