Why trust is essential for whistleblowing programs to be effective
People only speak up when they trust they will be protected and that action will follow.
The report
The benefits of trust in a whistleblowing program can be invaluable.
Attitudes still hold back whistleblower protection
Fear of retaliation and doubt that anything will change discourage reporting.
Legislation in the United States
Federal programs protect and reward whistleblowers in certain areas.
Legislation in the EU
EU rules require organizations to provide secure reporting channels and protection.
Legislation in the UK
Protection exists for workers making qualifying disclosures.
Gulf Cooperation Council
Frameworks are developing across the region.
Southeast Asia
Approaches vary by country.
Latin America
Several countries have introduced protections, often linked to anti-corruption laws.
Four ways to strengthen whistleblowing protection
1. Nurture an integrity-first culture
2. Increase awareness, training and communication
3. Use technology to complement traditional reporting channels
4. Embed the program in global compliance strategy
The value of a whistleblowing program far outweighs its cost
Early warnings prevent much larger losses.
Summary
Trust is the foundation of effective whistleblowing.
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