Singapore tops global ranking in government effectiveness for two consecutive years

Singapore topped the global ranking that tracks the effectiveness of more than 100 governments around the world for the second consecutive year, according to the fourth edition of the Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) released on Wednesday.

The country ranked first in three of the seven pillars under assessment - leadership and foresight, which involves ethical and adaptable leaders with long-term vision; strong institutions, such as ministries, public departments and statutory agencies; and attractive marketplace, which includes creating jobs, innovation, and opportunities.

It held the second position in financial stewardship, which looks at how governments acquire, allocate and distribute public funds.

In the remaining pillars, Singapore ranked fourth in helping people rise, which looks at how governments help citizens achieve a better quality of life; ninth in robust policies and laws; and 26th in global influence and reputation.

Singapore’s approach towards artificial intelligence (AI) was also singled out as it topped the rankings for governance capabilities that support an effective AI strategy, including long-term vision, regulatory governance and implementation indicators.

Singapore’s AI strategy is described as “comprehensive” as its enablers involve technical infrastructure, a skilled workforce and creating an environment that safeguards users and fosters innovation.

In the CGGI ‘s fourth edition, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland and Norway ranked second to fifth respectively while the Republic of Korea ranked 20th - the only other Asian country in the top 20.

The CGGI is compiled by the Chandler Institute of Governance, a non-profit organisation headquartered in Singapore. The institute scored the countries on 35 indicators that belong to seven pillars.

The index taps more than 50 publicly available global data sources, including from the United Nations, World Trade Organisation, World Justice Project and Yale University.

Up to 113 countries were evaluated, accounting for about 90% of the world’s population.