In the context of Civil Service, what do 'civil rights' refer to?

In the context of Civil Service, 'civil rights' refer to the rights of citizens to receive equal treatment under the law. This concept is central to democratic societies and is rooted in the principle that all individuals should be treated fairly and without discrimination regardless of race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. Civil rights are designed to protect individuals from injustices and ensure that everyone has access to the same opportunities and legal protections.

While other options touch upon rights or responsibilities within a civil framework, they do not encapsulate the fundamental essence of civil rights. For instance, the rights associated with voting and civic participation emphasize one aspect of civil rights but do not cover the broader protections against discrimination. The rights reserved for government officials and the rights of employers relate more to authority within the governance and workplace context rather than the equality and protection guaranteed to all citizens. Therefore, the recognition of equal treatment under the law is the cornerstone of civil rights and upholds the values of justice and equity in society.