Public service is not just a job, but an expression of trust on the part of society and the state. The image of the government is formed from the actions of each individual employee: from a specialist in the district Akimat to the head of the ministry. That is why observance of ethical norms is the foundation of professional activity of a civil servant.
The fundamental document regulating the moral and ethical image of employees is the Code of Ethics of Civil Servants of the Republic of Kazakhstan, approved by the Decree of the President.
The main principle of a civil servant's work is to serve the people. According to the Code, an employee is obliged to show correctness and tactfulness in dealing with citizens.
It is categorically inadmissible:
- Rudeness and humiliation of dignity;
- Impoliteness and display of arrogance;
- Actions that give cause for criticism from the public.
A civil servant should be modest and observe generally accepted moral and ethical norms. It is important to remember: any actions that undermine the authority of public bodies damage the image of the entire state. It is also prohibited to make improper promises, which the employee is unable to fulfill within the framework of his/her official duties.
Ethics standards strictly regulate the issues of honesty and impartiality. A public servant is obliged to oppose any action detrimental to the interests of the state.
Key requirements include:
- Avoiding conflicts of interest: Personal interests must not influence official decision-making.
- Prohibition on using one's official position: One should not use one's authority for personal matters or to influence third parties (including public and religious associations).
- Financial integrity: A public servant shall not pursue improper property interests.
- Intended use of property: Public property must be used exclusively for official purposes.
According to the updated regulations, civil servants are required to refrain from visiting gambling establishments. The only exception is when it is necessary for the performance of official duties (e.g. in the context of operational activities).
A healthy atmosphere within an agency is essential for effective work. The Code obliges employees to promote business and friendly relations.
In dealing with colleagues, a civil servant should:
- Be an example of impartiality and fairness.
- Refrain from discussing the personal qualities of colleagues and gossip defaming their honor.
- Refrain from discrimination and infringement of personal dignity.
- Not to impose their religious beliefs.
If a civil servant sees a violation of ethical norms on the part of a colleague, he or she shall take measures to stop it.
The appearance of a civil servant is a visual reflection of the authority of the state apparatus. The Code clearly defines the criteria of the dress code: formality, restraint and neatness.
Special requirements are imposed on public statements and behavior outside of work:
- Public Speeches: Civil servants should not publicly criticize public policy if their opinion is not in line with the main directions of the country's development, or disclose official information. Discussions should be conducted in a correct manner.
- Behavior outside office hours: Even after taking off his uniform or leaving the office, a person remains a representative of the government. He should show modesty, not emphasize his official position to obtain favors and avoid anti-social behavior.
Compliance with the Code of Ethics is not a formality but a professional obligation. High standards of service ethics, including modesty, legality and respect for citizens, are the basis for building trusting relations between the state and society. Each public servant bears personal responsibility for preserving and strengthening this trust.
The Commissioner for Ethics of the DGD for the region Zhetisu Baimuldinov N.A.