The latest Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index has placed New Zealand number one, equal with Denmark, as the country considered to have the least corrupt public sector.
“To be the best in this category is a huge vote of trust and confidence in our Public Service,” said Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes.
The Commissioner said New Zealand had an enviable international reputation for its truly neutral, trusted public service.
“This reputation has been further enhanced in the latest Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2020. The index measures how corrupt a country’s public sector is perceived to be. It is the most widely used indicator of corruption worldwide.”
“Public servants work every day delivering vital services and work hard to earn the trust and confidence of New Zealanders. This result is a tribute to their hard work and integrity.
“The Public Service and our system of government cannot operate without the trust and confidence of the people we serve. Without public trust we can lose our licence to operate.”
He said the challenge now was to maintain our excellent reputation.
“We cannot be complacent. We need to be vigilant in preserving the fundamental principles of the Public Service: political neutrality, free and frank advice to Ministers, merit-based appointments, open government and stewardship.”
“But for now, public servants across New Zealand can feel very proud.”
