In public administration, a Conflict of Interest (COI) is a situation where the private interests of a public official clash with their professional duties and responsibilities.
Manifestation of conflict of interest
Financial Investments in companies regulated by one’s own department.
Family Ties (Nepotism). Eg- Chanda Kochhar Case
Post-Employment Ambitions (Revolving Door). Eg- “Amakudari” in Japan
Gifts and Hospitality
Outside Directorships
Personal Biases
Secondary Employment. Eg- Moonlighting
Property Interests
Actual vs. Potential Conflict of Interest
Ways to Prevent Conflict of Interest
Mandatory Disclosure of Assets (2nd ARC)
Cooling-off Period
Code of Ethics and office of Ethics Commissioner
Institutionalized “Conflict of Interest” Registers
Integrity Pacts
In a democracy, the appearance of integrity is as important as integrity itself. Moving from a culture of secrecy to a culture of disclosure, can help maintain public trust in governance.