ETHICAL PRINCIPLES FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS

EXECUTIVE DECREEE No. 13 of January 24, 1991

I declare my conviction to conduct myself at all times according to the highest principles of moral, intellectual and material honesty in carrying out my public responsibilities according to the following:

1. LOYALTY.  I understand and accept that employment by the government as a public servant constitutes simultaneously a privilege and an obligation to serve society because the citizens’ taxes pay my salary.
2. DEDICATED SERVICE.  I affirm that all my acts will be guided and inspired by love for Country, its symbols and institutions; by respect for the constitution and the laws which emanate from it; and by the firmest belief in the dignity of the human individual.
3. PROBITY.  I declare that all resources and funds, documents, goods and any other materials confided to my management or custody will be treated with absolute probity so as to obtain collective benefits.
4. HONESTY.  I declare that I will act without giving privilege to, or discriminating against anyone through dispensing favors or special services in the performance of my work, nor will I receive benefits or remuneration in addition to those to which I have the right to receive for carrying out my duties.
5. ACCOUNTABILITY.  I am prepared to accept accountability for all my acts so that the general public and the persons with whom I have specific contacts will continuously increase their confidence in me, in the government and in our capacity to serve them.
6. COMPETENCE.  I recognize my duty to be competent, having and demonstrating the knowledge and attitudes required for the efficient performance of my duties, and continually updating them so as to apply them to the maximum of my intelligence and my strength.
7. EFFECTIVENESS AND EFFICIENCY.  I commit the application of my knowledge and experience in the best possible manner to assure the achievement of the purposes and objectives of the government with optimum quality and timeliness.
8. CIVIC VALOR.  I recognize my obligation to solidarity with my companions and fellow citizens; but admit my duty to report, and to avoid becoming an accomplice in anything, which contravenes the ethical and moral principles contained in this document.
9. TRANSPARENCY.  I accept the duty to demonstrate at all times and with sufficient clarity that my actions as a public servant are carried out strictly and permanently abiding by juridical and social standards and principles.