Importance Of Public Sector Ethics

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Public sector ethics is a broad topic and sometimes regarded as a branch of political ethics. The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA, 2013b) and Thompson (1985) suggest that ethics in public sector addresses the important duties of public administrators towards the public. From this perspective, we get a refined definition of public sector ethics. It encompasses morally acceptable justifications and consideration for actions and decisions made in the course of daily duties in provision of services of the government and non-governmental organizations. The ethics attempts to create a free and open atmosphere in governmental operations. The decisions made must conform to the ethical rules, regulations, and principles. The latter
Parliamentary democracy and various institutions are vital for the interests of the public. Public servants recognize elected officials as custodians of democracy as they represent their interests in the parliament. Thus, non-partisan public sector is crucial to the citizens’ democratic system. Code of ethics also provides for respect for people by treating all people with dignity and fairness irrespective of type of profession, racial background, income, health, or gender among other factors. There are practices outside rules and regulations stipulated by statutes but are part of the public sector. Failure to address these ethical requirements or addressing them within the confines of the rules and regulations will lead to imbalance in the public sector. Most jurisdictions provide for human dignity and the need for its respect and protection. However, through ethical practices considered in ethical codes, the respect and protection of human dignity is executable. This will promote openness, engagement, and transparency in the operation among public servants (ASPA, 1994; ASPA, 2013a; ASPA,
Development and promotion of the spirit of professionalism among its members is at the core of the Society (ASPA, 1994). Another central role of the society is to increase public awareness of ethical principles within public domain. Many are the principles of the ASPA Code of Ethics - 1994. The first is to serve the public interest. Under this principle are many rules, one of which is to oppose all forms of discrimination and harassment and promote affirmative action. Discrimination and harassment in public institutions is not new although there are laws against them. In spite of their existence in statutes, many cases go unreported and this calls for sound respect for ethical standards. Involving the citizens in policy decision-making is another requirement under the principle. Decisions in major government organs provide no obligation for participation by the public although it is ethically good to involve the citizens. The society also assists the public in their dealings with the government as in procedural and sensitive matters (ASPA, 1994; ASPA, 2013a; ASPA,

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