Ethical Climate and Speaking Up in Public Agencies

Abstract

Public servants often notice problems long before they are corrected, but many choose to stay silent. Using survey data from 2,100 employees in 27 agencies, this study examines how ethical climate, supervisor behaviour and fear of retaliation shape willingness to speak up. A caring and rule-consistent climate predicted more reporting, while leaders who thanked employees for raising concerns raised reporting further. Perceived retaliation cancelled these effects. We recommend that agencies pair clear procedures with visible follow-up so that employees can see that speaking up leads to action.