Transparency International's 2006 review of perceptions of public sector corruption indicates that in almost three-quarters of the 163 countries surveyed malfeasance remains a serious problem and in many cases a major impediment to economic and social development, exacerbating poverty and inequality.

Countries where perceived corruption has continuously improved from 2004 to 2006 include Algeria, Estonia, India, Latvia, Slovakia, Turkey, Paraguay. Those that have worsened include Brazil, Israel, Seychelles, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia.

Expect corruption to remain widespread.

To read more, visit http://www.eulerhermes.com/usa/en/news_publications/country_risk_bulletin.html.