Cultivating Sustainable and Ethical Practices in Public Service: The Role of Employee Ethos in Shaping Public Sector Culture

Objective The article points to the importance of a culture of sustainability in the public sector, emphasising the role of democratic governance and civic participation in promoting openness, transparency and accountability as key elements in building the resilience of public institutions and in adapting to changing external conditions. It also explores how integrating the concepts of humanisation of work and corporate social responsibility into public sector activities can promote sustainable leadership and shape employee moral attitudes. In conclusion, the article recommends encouraging and supporting sustainable practices and attitudes, crucial to effectively addressing contemporary environmental and social challenges. It draws attention to the need for further research, particularly of an empirical nature, to better understand the impact of global trends on local sustainability strategies in the public sector. Methodology The focus is on theoretical analysis of literature on sustainability and work ethos in the public sector. This study is based on a broad interpretation of available sources, aiming to identify the key factors influencing the development of a culture of sustainability in public organisations. Findings The main conclusions of the article concern the importance of the ethos of the public servant in building a culture of sustainability in the public sector, the role of democratic governance and civic participation in promoting sustainable practices, and the impact of sustainable leadership and humanisation of work on developing a responsible organisational culture. Value Added A culture of sustainability in the public sector is critical in shaping resilient and ethical institutions. The article highlights the importance of democratic governance, civic participation, and integrating humanising work with public action. It also highlights how sustainable leadership and employee involvement in decision-making processes can contribute to effectively addressing contemporary environmental and social challenges. It also points to the need for further empirical research to better understand the impact of global trends on sustainability strategies in the public sector context. Recommendations This comprehensive exploration of sustainability culture in the public sector underscores the transformative power of ethical governance, participatory democracy, and sustainable leadership in fostering resilience and moral integrity within public institutions.