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What is it?
The principle of integrity holds that, to serve in the public interest, civil servants are to discharge their official duties honestly, fairly and in a manner consistent with soundness of moral principle.
Why is it important?
Integrity is essential for effective governance, building strong institutions, fighting corruption and increasing transparency and accountability at all levels, in line with SDG16. It is a key objective of working towards the betterment of service delivery. Integrity is also a cornerstone of many anti-corruption approaches by creating an incentive framework for good behaviour and can support the achievement of SDG target 16.5 which calls for substantially reducing corruption and bribery in all their forms. It is therefore crucial to anchor integrity in all government operations.
Commonly used strategies
Commonly used strategies include the promotion of anti-corruption policies, practices and bodies, codes of conduct for public officials, competitive public procurement, elimination of bribery and trading in influence, conflict of interest policies, whistle-blower protection and provision of adequate remuneration and equitable pay scales for public servants.
What are some key insights for governments?
Member States could consider institutionalizing integrity measures by establishing anti-corruption legal frameworks to boost freedom of information and whistle-blower protection, enhancing merit-based hiring to reduce inequalities and discriminatory practices within government, and expanding audit and control systems to enhance oversight. Raising awareness of the value of ethics and integrity among young people, through educational systems, could provide a solid foundation for future efforts.