Asia Pacific leads global governance gains, Chandler Index finds

The 2026 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) reveals that the Asia Pacific region is outpacing the rest of the world in governance improvements. According to the report, 79% of governments in the region recorded higher scores this year. Singapore has maintained the top global rank for the fourth consecutive year.

Viet Nam emerged as the most improved country in the Asia Pacific since 2021, rising from 58th to 49th in global rankings. Its progress was noted across six of the index's seven pillars, including Financial Stewardship, a category where many other governments saw declines.

The CGGI evaluates 133 governments based on seven pillars: Leadership & Foresight, Robust Laws & Policies, Strong Institutions, Financial Stewardship, Attractive Marketplace, Global Influence & Reputation, and Helping People Rise. Other high-ranking regional nations include Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan.