Ethics in Private and Public Relationships — Ethical Framework

Ethical Framework

Identify the active role

A parent, friend, colleague and public official can be the same person. Ask which responsibility governs the decision. Personal care can justify helping a relative with private resources; public selection requires the announced and relevant criteria.

Separate a conflict from completed misconduct

A conflict of interest is a situation in which a private interest or relationship can interfere, or appear to interfere, with impartial public duty. Its existence calls for management; it does not by itself prove that a decision was corrupt. Disclosure, recusal, reassignment or additional scrutiny may be appropriate depending on the risk.

Use consistent criteria without ignoring relevant need

Impartiality is not emotional indifference. Providing an accessible application channel can remove a barrier while preserving substantive eligibility. By contrast, giving extra marks because an applicant is personally known introduces an irrelevant preference.

Understand loyalty and confidentiality

Loyalty to an institution's lawful purpose can require reporting misconduct. Confidentiality protects legitimate interests but does not authorise concealment of a violation. Use accurate evidence and the appropriate channel, limiting unrelated disclosure.

Apply a public justification test

State the rule or purpose, the facts and the reasons for the choice. Ask whether similarly placed people would receive comparable treatment and whether affected people can seek review. The CCS Conduct Rules provide a concrete public-service framework, but their legal scope should not be extended automatically to each type of employee.