Planning in Ghana: analysis of the various forms of professional misconduct from the perspective of professional planners

ABSTRACT

A study of 46 professional planners across Ghana, found that 60% of those interviewed are unaware of the prescribed codes of ethics. Respondents identified prevalent forms of professional misconduct including bribery, corruption, and unfair dealing among others. Factors contributing to this misconduct are political interference, weak enforcement of ethics codes, poor working conditions, and low incomes. The participants of the study also identified that unethical behaviour among planners can result in the development of unapproved structures, encroachment on ecologically sensitive areas, and low confidence in the planning system. The study suggests the need for a more comprehensive ethical code of conduct for professional planning practice in Ghana with effective enforcement mechanisms.

KEYWORDS:

• Professional planning
• code of ethics
• professional misconduct
• professional planning practice
• Ghana

Acknowledgments

The authors greatly appreciate and acknowledge the value of the reviewer and editor for their efforts in editing the manuscript to improve its readability and coherence.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Data of this manuscript will be made available upon request

Additional information

Funding

The full cost of carrying out the research was borne by the authors