PROFESSIONAL ETHICS CODES

1. Professional ethics codes

An ethics or code of conduct is a fundamental tool for instilling the value of clarity within an organization: it identifies the standards of good practice and creates a safe working environment. The ethics codes of different organizations have both common and specific characteristics. The specific traits depend on the nature of the organization (or profession) and its activities.

1.1. The role of ethical codes

The ethics code outlines the principles of operation, their definitions, and the rules established based on them. Examples illustrating these rules should help achieve the organization's objectives. Therefore, to create an effective ethics code, it is important that the organization’s values, expressed in its goals and mission, are detailed — that is, the principles, values, and rules must be clearly defined, and their application scenarios discussed (e.g., in ethics training).

1.2. Purpose of ethics codes

The purpose of ethics codes is to establish the relationships among members of a profession or organization and to mediate their interactions with society. Behavioral standards function not only within the internal operations of the organization but are also intended for a broader audience (e.g., customers, suppliers, patients, clients). If an organization has an ethics code, it indicates that it demonstrates the profession's responsibility to society and strives for more transparent and fair practices among its representatives.

Objectives of an ethics code:

- Encourage ethical behavior and deter misconduct.

- Assist in decision-making processes.

- Serve as a tool for combating corruption.

- Manage conflicts of interest.

- Control and regulate behavior (through self-regulation).

- Promote competence (professional development).

- Maintain a positive image and reputation for the organization/profession.

- Help gain a competitive advantage and foster fair competition.

- Encourage socially responsible activities.

Practical assignment 5.1. Read the following case study carefully and answer the multiple-choice, true/false, and short-answer questions based on the scenario in the test given below.

1.3. Structure and content of Ethics Codes

Ethics codes typically include the following main sections:

1.4. Examples of Ethics Codes

• Ethics Code of the Civil Service of the Republic of Lithuania
  This code establishes the fundamental principles that civil servants must follow to ensure fair and responsible service activities. The code emphasizes principles such as impartiality, integrity, responsibility, and transparency.

• Ethics Code of Lithuanian Lawyers
  This code defines the principles and rules of professional activity for lawyers, aiming to ensure honest, independent, and qualified legal assistance. The main principles of the code include the independence of lawyers, confidentiality, prioritizing client interests, and collegiality.

• Ethics Code of Lithuanian Medical Professionals
  The code outlines the principles of professional activity for medical personnel to ensure patient safety and respectful, professional care. The main principles of the code include respect for patient autonomy, confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism.

1.5. Benefits of an Ethics Code

Regulates behavior. An ethics code helps establish clear standards and norms of conduct that all members of the organization must adhere to.

Promotes trust. It fosters trust among members of the organization, clients, and the public by ensuring fair and transparent practices.

Helps resolve conflicts. The code provides a basis for addressing ethical issues and conflicts that may arise in the organization’s activities.

Cultivates culture. It contributes to the development of an ethical and responsible organizational culture by promoting awareness and accountability among employees.

Tips for Leaders

Practical task 5.2. Use the dialogue cards below to reinforce your understanding of ethical codes.

Practical task 5.3. Choose the correct answers for the topic "Ethical Code Goals and Purpose".