The Ethics Officer's role
Public service staff have the right to consult an Ethics Officer, who offers guidance on fulfilling professional responsibilities and upholding ethical principles. While the Ethics Officer does not make decisions, they provide advice and support to help staff navigate ethical questions.
Public service staff have the following ethical responsibilities:
Dignity – treating others with respect
Impartiality – not favouring anyone
Integrity – acting honestly
Probity – being transparent in your actions
Neutrality – remaining unbiased
Equality – respecting the principle of equal treatment
Avoiding conflicts of interest
When to contact the Ethics Officer
The university and its staff can contact the Ethics Officer with questions about the ethical responsibilities and obligations of public service staff. For example, if a staff member is planning to start or take over a business, they must request permission. The University of Strasbourg may consult the Ethics Officer if there is serious doubt about whether the proposed activity is compatible with the staff member’s duties over the past three years.
The same applies if a staff member is considering working in the private sector during a temporary or permanent break from public service.
Staff can also report a conflict of interest to the Ethics Officer. In such cases, the Ethics Officer provides guidance to help resolve the situation and to ensure compliance with ethical principles.
