Abstract

The Code of Conduct for Civil Servants’ Freedom of Expression was developed by the Ethics Council for Civil Servants. The Code outlines that freedom of expression is one of the fundamental rights which also applies to civil servants. The Code states that institutions are advised to encourage their officials to participate more actively in the social debate and that civil servants have the right to sign statements and petitions as private people. In work-related matters, personal opinions can be expressed responsibly, with arguments, based on public information and considering the possible impact on the institution’s reputation. All civil servants must ensure that their personal views are not considered to be the views of the institution, and opinions different from those of the institution can be presented to the public. However, this requires that the official has previously explained their arguments within the institution.