Examples of Public Sector Reform Initiatives in the Commonwealth

Eliminating Corruption

Corruption can manifest itself as individual, organisational or institutional and can be found in both the public and private sectors. In the context of the state, corruption most often refers to criminal or otherwise unlawful conduct by government agencies, or by officials of these organisations acting in the course of their employment.

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United Republic of Tanzania

In United Republic of Tanzania, the recent process of trade and economic liberalisation has increased concerns about integrity in the national economy and in the public service. Consequently, in August 1995, a workshop on the National Integrity Systems was held in Arusha, which drew up a detailed proposal for a National Integrity Plan covering all aspects of public life, the public service and the business community. The workshop culminated in the signing of the Arusha Integrity Pledge whereby all participants affirmed their opposition to all forms of corrupt practices and publicly requested actions to be taken against such practices.

Uganda

When the National Resistance Movement took power in Uganda it recognized the dangers of widespread corruption and, as an initial step, established the Office of Inspector-General of the Government to receive complaints and generally investigate practices.

Malaysia

In Malaysia , the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) is the government institution directly responsible for enforcing the laws against corruption.

Trinidad & Tobago

In Trinidad & Tobago, the conduct of public service employees is guided by service regulations and codes of conduct which, among other matters, prohibit gainful activities outside the service and the acceptance of gifts and rewards.

Barbados

In Barbados , the Ombudsman's office was established in 1987. It hears complaints against government offices for alleged injuries or injustices resulting from administrative conduct. The office is proscribed from involving itself in issues involving foreign affairs, immigration questions, and certain other matters.

Public Service Code of Conduct

A public service code of conduct provides guidance on required behaviours within the service and prescribes required standards of integrity and professional conduct. Such codes relate directly to conditions of employment and legally-enforceable regulations.

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Malaysia

The Malaysian Government undertook a comprehensive review of the codes of conduct and discipline for civil servants in 1991.

Mauritius

A revised code of conduct is being developed for the public service of Mauritius covering: the values and principles of the civil service; the obligations of the public servants to government; the need for political neutrality; the importance of service to the public; the need for leadership; the avoidance of conflicts of interest; avoiding bringing the government into disrepute; the use of government resources; and the relationships with colleagues.

Kenya

The Kenyan Government has recently revisited its Code of Regulations for civil servants compatible with the code for ministers.

UK

In the UK , the Nolan Committee has emphasized the need for a strong code of conduct for civil servants compatible with the code for ministers.

Malta

In Malta , on 31 October 1994 , a code of conduct was released by the prime minister replacing previous instructions in the staff management guidelines.