Whistleblowers – thinking ahead
The Whistleblower Network News reports on the present situation regarding whistleblowers, specifically in the US, but this applies to most countries as they address whistleblowers . There is a clear understanding that whistleblowers are now more important than ever, based upon the present anti-corruption landscape. Additionally, the significant importance of adhering to whistleblower legislation is also essential. During a webinar, led by two attorneys focusing on whistleblowing, they described how journalists and NGOs can partner with whistleblowers to sustain international oversight. They noted that “Even though effective legislation exists ... a pervasive issue that debilitates the system: people are unaware of the statutory framework and rights available to them, leading to disqualification. …[J]ournalists and NGOs, often report corruption… through the press. A problem arises, however, when the government reads the story and then initiates an investigation before the whistleblower has officially filed their report, thereby disqualifying the whistleblower.” As some countries have pulled back on anti-corruption the role of the whistleblower becomes even more important, and all possible whistleblowers should be aware of the legal framework that protects them.
Why should we care and what are our next steps? Whistleblowers will become more important over the next few years in the US, as well as in other countries, due to the changes occurring worldwide. As many whistleblower protections are legislative, and how information makes it to the employees in both the public and private sectors is a challenge for all groups. This is so important as the protections can accidentally be lost, and as the article notes, many whistleblowers come first to media organizations, without knowing what their protections may include. It is therefore so important for ethical journalists to know how to help whistleblowers, and trainings as well as helping whistleblowers find the needed resources is essential. Whistleblowers deserve all the support that can provide, and the described trainings are one very positive step.
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