Public servants in Ukraine have changed the ethics rules: what is now prohibited

According to glavcom.ua: The National Agency of Ukraine for Civil Service has made changes to the General Rules of Ethical Behavior for Civil Servants and Local Government Officials. The new rules, approved by the Order of the NAZCU dated August 20, 2025, No. 116-25, change the approach to modern realities, particularly in relation to technological development and the needs of society in the conditions of war. This is reported by

"Glavcom"

with reference to the NAZCU.

Main provisions of the new rules

• undergoing professional training, including on ethics and integrity;
• ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence in the performance of official duties;
• inadmissibility of spreading hate speech;
• proper treatment of persons who lived/live in temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and areas of hostilities, internally displaced persons, veterans, and veteran women;
• increasing cultural and professional levels in terms of developing skills in the English language or another foreign language necessary for performing official duties;
• expressions of respect for the regional and local symbolism of local self-government;
• conceptual approaches to resolving ethical dilemmas;
• ensuring the accessibility of information when it is presented.

Clarifications and cancellation of certain requirements

Moreover, the changes contain clarifying provisions that cancel the requirement for political neutrality for elective positions, aligning the rules with legislation.

The NAZCU emphasizes that adherence to these rules is the foundation of public trust in authority and reflects the public service's commitment to transparency, respect, and professional development.

The summary of the new rules of ethical behavior for civil servants, which contains new provisions regarding professional ethics, responsible use of technology, and cultural attitudes towards different groups of the population, has been concluded. Compliance with these rules is key to maintaining citizens' trust in government.