Values of public service

Honesty and moral consistency in word and deed

Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, and acting on them consistently, even when no one is watching and even at personal cost.

Fairness to all and neutrality between parties

Impartiality means making decisions on merit and law, treating everyone equally regardless of who they are; non-partisanship means civil servants serve every lawfully elected government without favouring any political party.

Deciding on facts, evidence and merit

Objectivity means basing decisions and advice on facts, evidence and careful analysis, not on personal feelings, prejudice, pressure or self-interest.

Putting the public interest first

Dedication to public service means a deep commitment to serving citizens and the public interest, working hard and with care, and putting duty before personal convenience or gain.

Understanding others' feelings and situations

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others: to put yourself in their place and see a situation from their point of view.

Respecting differences

Tolerance means accepting and respecting people whose beliefs, opinions, cultures and ways of life differ from one's own, and treating them fairly.

Special care for the vulnerable

Compassion towards the weaker sections means showing care and concern for the poor, women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities, minorities and other vulnerable groups, and actively helping them.