ISLAMABAD: The federal government has implemented the Civil Servants Conduct Rules 2026. Under these rules, strict regulations have been introduced for government employees regarding conflicts of interest, asset declarations, social media usage, gifts and privileges, additional employment and political activities.
Officers in Grade-17 and above will be required to declare their assets annually and strict disciplinary action will be taken in case of violations.
The purpose of the new rules is to improve transparency, accountability and professional standards in public sector. Sources in the Establishment Division said rules have been enforced to make conduct of government employees more organised and transparent. These rules will apply immediately to all civil servants across the country and those posted abroad.
According to the notification issued by the Establishment Division, the rules have been formulated under Civil Servants Act 1973 with the approval of prime minister.
Under the new rules, comprehensive and strict regulations have been introduced regarding conflicts of interest, asset declarations, use of social media, gifts and benefits, additional employment and political activities.
The notification states every civil servant will be responsible for ensuring his or her personal and family financial interests do not conflict with their official duties. In case of any potential conflict of interest, officer concerned must recuse themselves from the decision-making process. All government employees are required to submit details of their assets. Officers in Grade-17 and above must declare their assets annually through a digital portal. These assets will be reviewed by the FBR and some information may also be made public to strengthen accountability.
Strict restrictions have also been imposed regarding gifts and benefits. Government employees and their family members are prohibited from accepting gifts that could influence official duties.
Similarly, prior approval from the federal government will be mandatory for receiving any foreign awards or titles.
Clear and strict guidelines have been issued regarding social media use. Government employees cannot join any website, blog, vlog or media platform without permission. They are also prohibited from sharing official matters or information on personal social media accounts.
Employees have been instructed to keep official and personal social media accounts separate. Even on personal accounts, they are not allowed to publish content related to official work, resources, privileges or responsibilities, nor use it for self-promotion.
Under the rules, cadre administrator has the authority to request details of personal social media accounts from employees at any time.
Additionally, government employees are prohibited from publishing memoirs or writings based on their job experiences if there is a risk of disclosing confidential information.
The new conduct rules clearly prohibit government employees from participating in politics, supporting political activities or publicly expressing views against government policies.
They are also barred from taking full-time or part-time employment in any bank, company, private trust, foundation, or non-profit organisation during service (except under specific conditions during approved extraordinary leave).
The rules further clarify no government employee may take up employment or affiliation with any foreign government, nor use their official position, authority, or influence for personal, private, or organisational interests. Moreover, emphasis has been placed on maintaining dignity, responsible behaviour, punctuality, professional integrity and public reputation. These standards also apply to their conduct on social media. With enforcement of new rules, previous Conduct Rules of 1964 have been abolished, although actions taken under them will remain valid.
According to experts, purpose of the new conduct rules is to enhance transparency, accountability and professional standards in the public system, and to restore public trust.
