A conflict of interest occurs when an individual’s personal interests – family, friendships, financial, or social factors – could compromise their judgment, decisions, or actions in the workplace. This can happen if you make a decision as a civil servant that may affect people who are close to you, such as your spouse, a family member, friend and business partner.
It is natural that situations with conflicts of interest can occur. In such situations, it is important to disclose the conflict to your organisation and refrain from working with or making decisions in the matter.