Singapore tops global governance index again, extends four-year streak

It ranked first in five pillars, with gains in institutions and fiscal strength.

Singapore has retained its position as the world’s top-ranked country in the Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) 2026 for a fourth consecutive year, according to the latest report released on 14 May.

The CGGI evaluates government capability and performance across 35 indicators covering seven pillars, namely Leadership & Foresight, Robust Laws & Policies, Strong Institutions, Financial Stewardship, Attractive Marketplace, Global Influence & Reputation, and Helping People Rise. The 2026 edition covers 133 countries.

Singapore ranked first globally in five of the seven pillars, namely Leadership & Foresight, Strong Institutions, Financial Stewardship, Attractive Marketplace, and Helping People Rise, the report stated.

It also remained first in Strong Institutions, which has risen from 10th place in 2021. Leadership & Foresight and Helping People Rise also improved over the same period.

Financial Stewardship returned to first place in 2026 after slipping to second place in 2024 and 2025, according to the index.

However, Robust Laws & Policies and Global Influence & Reputation remained weaker areas relative to other pillars. Singapore ranked 8th in Robust Laws & Policies, down from 7th in 2021. Global Influence & Reputation improved to 21st in 2026 from 32nd in 2021.

Singapore has ranked at or near the top of the index since its launch in 2021.

Globally, 61% of countries in the 2025 index recorded score improvements, the highest proportion to date.

The Asia Pacific region saw broad-based gains, with 79% of countries improving, including China, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, and Vietnam, according to the report.

The CGGI is published by non-profit organisation Chandler Governance Group.

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