Safeguarding Citizens’ Rights in the Administrative System: An Examination of the Principle of Equality in Public Services and Public Employment

Abstract

The principle of equality is one of the most fundamental principles of public and administrative law. Under this principle, all citizens must enjoy equal access to rights, opportunities, and public services without discrimination, unless differential treatment is based on legitimate and legally justified grounds. The present study aimed to examine the principle of equality among citizens under the Civil Service Management Law and to clarify its position within Iran’s administrative legal system. Using a descriptive-analytical method and drawing on documentary and library-based research, the study explored the various dimensions of this principle. The findings indicate that the Civil Service Management Law addresses the principle of equality in such areas as equality in recruitment, access to public employment and services, administrative impartiality, continuity and adaptability of public services, and fairness in service delivery. Nevertheless, an examination of the relevant laws and regulations reveals that, in certain cases, statutory exceptions and restrictions have limited the full implementation of this principle, and the legislator’s approach to safeguarding equality among citizens has not always been uniform or consistent. Overall, the realization of the principle of equality within the administrative system requires the effective implementation of meritocracy, the elimination of unjustified discrimination, stronger oversight of the performance of executive agencies, and adherence to citizens’ rights. These measures can facilitate the achievement of administrative justice and enhance public trust in the governance system.