What is expected of public servants regarding ethical conduct?

Public servants are held to high ethical standards due to the trust placed in them by the community they serve. Therefore, they are expected to abide by standards established by legislative and departmental policies. These standards provide a clear framework for ethical conduct, ensuring that decisions are made in the interest of the public and in accordance with the law. This is crucial for maintaining accountability, transparency, and integrity within public service roles.

Legislative and departmental policies outline specific expectations and responsibilities, helping to guide public servants in their duties and interactions with the public. By adhering to these standards, public servants demonstrate their commitment to ethical behavior and reinforce public confidence in government operations. This structured approach is essential for fostering a culture of ethics and professionalism in public service, distinguishing it from simply following generic moral codes or relying purely on personal judgment, which can be subjective and inconsistent. Furthermore, ignoring unethical behavior undermines the integrity of the organization and can lead to a toxic work environment and an erosion of public trust.