Ethics, Integrity, and Social Responsibility as Foundations of State Governance: The Peruvian Case

This study focuses on the importance of ethics, integrity, and social responsibility in state governance, with a specific focus on the Peruvian context. Ethics, encompassing the moral principles that guide individual and organizational actions, plays a fundamental role in building trust and legitimacy in government. However, integrity is compromised in certain sectors due to persistent corruption, eroding public trust and affecting governance effectiveness. The qualitative methodology employed included a comprehensive review of existing literature, along with the analysis of legal documents, regulations, and government policies related to ethics, integrity, and social responsibility. Furthermore, twenty-four in-depth interviews were conducted with government officials, ethics experts, and civil society leaders, aiming to obtain a comprehensive and diverse perspective on the issue. The results underscored the need for the Peruvian government to adopt a more comprehensive approach to social responsibility, going beyond infrastructure and public service improvements to address crucial aspects such as education, healthcare, and social equity. In conclusion, within the Peruvian context, ethics, integrity, and social responsibility are fundamental elements for achieving effective state governance. Promoting an ethical culture, strengthening integrity through anti-corruption measures, and enhancing governmental social responsibility with comprehensive policies and programs are essential to meet society's needs and build a trustworthy government in an ever-evolving Peruvian society.