Code of Ethics for Politicians

Abstract

The democratic health of a nation lies, to a large extent, in the ethical nature of its citizens and political representatives. The strengthening of political institutions depends on many factors, though it essentially derives from the capacity of such institutions to give confidence to their citizens. Reliability is achieved by means of good practice and through the exercise of civic virtues. Honesty, loyalty, integrity, exemplary behaviour, austerity and capacity to provide service are basic attitudes that all citizens acknowledge as valuable, regardless of the political option they support. Only if these values are observed in the democratic exercise shall the citizenry be able to ascribe this noble profession and appraise it accordingly. Honourable exercise of politics taken as a service to the general interest requires political actors that enhance the fundamental values of democratic life, among which equality, tolerance, eagerness to dialogue and participation stand out significantly. This ethical code intends to be a tool beyond the diversity of political options that legitimately exist. It attempts to convey a model of behaviour to be respected and applied by those who exercise politics, regardless of territory, institution or administration.