Q. Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in the public servants.

Model Answer:

Essential Values and Preventing Non-Ethical Behavior in Public Service

Ethical conduct forms the bedrock of effective public service, essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring good governance. Ten essential values for effective public servants are:

• Integrity: Consistently adhering to moral principles (e.g., refusing bribes, avoiding conflicts of interest)
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions
• Transparency: Being open about processes and decisions (e.g., public disclosure of contracts)
• Impartiality: Treating all citizens fairly without bias
• Dedication to public service: Prioritizing public interest over personal gain
• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of conduct and competence
• Respect for diversity: Valuing societal differences (e.g., inclusive policy-making)
• Efficiency: Optimizing resource use for best outcomes
• Empathy: Responding sensitively to citizens’ needs
• Courage: Standing up for what’s right, even in challenging situations

To prevent non-ethical behavior in public servants, the following ways and means can be implemented:

1. Robust ethics training programs and clear codes of conduct
2. Transparent decision-making processes and public scrutiny
3. Effective whistleblower protection mechanisms
4. Regular ethics audits and assessments
5. Strong leadership committed to ethical conduct
6. Promotion of ethical culture within organizations
7. Strict enforcement of anti-corruption laws (e.g., asset declaration requirements)
8. Technology-aided monitoring systems

These preventive measures should be complemented by positive reinforcement, such as recognition for ethical conduct and creating a supportive environment for ethical decision-making. By fostering a culture that values integrity and accountability, public institutions can significantly reduce the occurrence of non-ethical behavior.

Conclusion: Upholding core values and implementing preventive measures are crucial for fostering ethical public service, leading to better governance and increased public trust.