Photo: Yui Mok/empics/picture alliance
The Code establishes an obligation to adhere to the principles of responsible and professional conduct in the digital environment. Employees with special status are required to adhere to standards of professional integrity when working online, use information systems in good faith, protect their digital identity, and refrain from using technology to gain an unfair advantage.
The need for these new regulations stems from the fact that previous legislation did not explicitly regulate standards of professional conduct online.
In addition, the Code prohibits hostile, degrading, or discrediting behavior; incitement to conflict; and the creation of an intimidating or humiliating work environment. Employees are also prohibited from engaging in favoritism, granting unwarranted advantages, discrimination, harassment, and other actions that could call into question the objectivity and impartiality of the performance of their official duties.
According to the authors of the document, the new rules are aimed at strengthening professional integrity and workplace discipline, and are in line with the recommendations of the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO).
