Singapore has secured the top position in the Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) for the second year in a row, outperforming over 100 nations worldwide. This prestigious ranking, now in its fourth edition, evaluates the effectiveness of governments across seven crucial pillars, and Singapore's exceptional performance has solidified its status as a global leader in governance.
"Singapore has topped a ranking that tracks the effectiveness of more than 100 governments around the world for the second consecutive year."
The city-state edged out Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, and Norway, which secured the second to fifth positions, respectively. South Korea emerged as the only other Asian country in the top 20, ranking 20th overall.
The CGGI's comprehensive assessment spans seven pillars, each representing a vital aspect of effective governance. Singapore's remarkable success can be attributed to its top rankings in three of these pillars: leadership and foresight, strong institutions, and an attractive marketplace.
Leadership and Foresight: A Beacon of Ethical Governance
Singapore's leadership and foresight pillar ranking underscores the nation's commitment to ethical and adaptable leadership with a long-term vision. The government's ability to chart a viable course towards a better future and engage its citizens in shaping that vision has been widely acclaimed. Not only do good governments do a good job of putting out the fires of today, but they also plot a realistic course towards a better future and ask their country to contribute to that future. This forward-thinking approach has been a hallmark of Singapore's governance model.
Strong Institutions: Pillars of Efficiency and Effectiveness
The strong institutions pillar highlights Singapore's robust ministries, public departments, and statutory agencies, which form the backbone of its efficient governance structure. These institutions play a crucial role in implementing policies, delivering public services, and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and social development.
Attractive Marketplace: Fostering Innovation and Opportunities
Singapore's top ranking in the attractive marketplace pillar reflects its commitment to creating jobs, fostering innovation, and providing opportunities for businesses to thrive. The government's pro-business policies, coupled with a stable political and economic environment, have made Singapore an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs alike.
Financial Stewardship: Prudent Management of Public Funds
While Singapore slipped to second place in the financial stewardship pillar, which assesses how governments acquire, allocate, and distribute public funds, its performance in this area remains commendable. The nation's prudent fiscal management and responsible use of public resources have contributed to its economic stability and growth.
Helping People Rise: Improving Quality of Life
In the "helping people rise" pillar, which evaluates how governments assist citizens in achieving a better quality of life, Singapore ranked fourth. This ranking reflects the government's efforts to provide accessible education, healthcare, and social support systems, ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation's progress.
Robust Policies and Laws: Fostering a Fair and Transparent Society
Singapore's ninth-place ranking in the robust policies and laws pillar highlights its commitment to establishing a fair and transparent legal framework. The government's efforts to ensure the rule of law, protect individual rights, and promote good governance have contributed to the nation's overall stability and prosperity.
Global Influence and Reputation: A Respected Voice on the World Stage
While Singapore ranked 26th in the global influence and reputation pillar, its performance in this area has improved compared to the previous year. The nation's growing global influence and positive reputation can be attributed to its successful economic and social policies, as well as its active participation in international affairs.
Renewing the Social Compact: Engaging Citizens for a Better Future
One of the key factors contributing to Singapore's success is its commitment to renewing its social compact with its people. It is instructive, for example, that Singapore, which once again topped the CGGI overall in 2024, has made a concerted effort to rebuild its social covenant with its people, despite the fact that it has achieved technical success in governance. Initiatives like the Forward Singapore exercise demonstrate the government's willingness to engage citizens and incorporate their perspectives in shaping the nation's future.
