The impact of adhering to public service ethics on protecting public order and its two aspects: An analytical study in the Saudi legal system

Abstract

Public service ethics constitute a fundamental pillar for ensuring the efficiency of public facilities and strengthening public trust in governmental institutions. This study aims to examine the impact of adherence to public service ethics on protecting public facilities and enhancing beneficiaries’ trust in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through an analytical review of the legal framework governing public employees’ conduct. The study analyzes the relevant regulations and legislation, including the Basic Law of Governance, the Civil Service Law, the
Anti-Corruption Law, and the Code of Conduct and Ethics of Public Service, while also highlighting the role of oversight bodies and digital transformation in promoting integrity and transparency.

The study concludes that public service ethics have evolved from merely moral obligations into binding legal duties that contribute to improving governmental performance, protecting public funds, and reducing administrative corruption. The findings reveal a direct relationship between adherence to ethical principles—such as integrity, impartiality, transparency, and avoidance of conflicts of interest—and the enhancement of service quality and beneficiaries’ trust. The study further emphasizes that the effectiveness of regulatory and legislative frameworks depends on promoting a culture of integrity and ethical awareness within the public sector, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in strengthening governance, transparency, and public sector efficiency.