Whistleblowers need better protection, say experts

Despite acting in the public interest whistleblowers still often suffer a ‘rat’ reputation

From toppling presidents to exposing shady practice at global corporations, over the years whistleblowers have highlighted some of the biggest cases of corruption and fraud the world has ever seen.

Whistblowers don’t need to be working in the government to make a difference though. By reporting wrongdoing, risk or malpractice in the workplace whistleblowers can make a huge impact on stopping illegal activity.

Although whistblowers act in the public interest and are protected by law, new research has revealed that they are still looked upon negatively and often intimidated or retaliated against by colleagues and employers.

According to Professor Hervé Stolowy and his co-authors Yves Gendron from Université Laval, Jodie Moll from Alliance Manchester Business School and Luc Paugam from HEC Paris, actions are needed to encourage and protect whistleblowers.

“Evidence suggests that society questions the legitimacy of whistleblowers – despite legal protections now being in place in some countries, including the United States,” says Professor Stolowy.

“However, we discovered that in reality whistleblowers’ actions are often perceived by superiors, colleagues and more generally society in a negative way. Yet, it is a legitimate and effective way to prevent fraud.

“Our research shows that, facing such challenges, whistleblowers develop a discourse that contributes to build the legitimacy of their role by bringing it to the public’s attention, tightly defining their actions and demonstrating its importance.”

Last year, former employees at US banking group Wells Fargo claimed they were fired after trying to blow the whistle.

Professor Stolowy adds: “The recent case of Wells Fargo highlights the difficulties faced by whistleblowers and how crucial a few voices can be to deter fraud. During several years, a number of Wells Fargo employees denounced the fraudulent business practices, such as the creation of fake bank accounts, but were intimidated and retaliated against by hierarchy.”

In defiance of the potential consequences though, the research also revealed that the one core element of all whistleblowers was that they all acted with the public interest in mind.

Ifyouarethinkingaboutwhistleblowing, contact Public Concern at Work at www.pcaw.org.uk for advice and information.

“Evidence suggests that society questions the legitimacy of whistleblowers – despite legal protections now being in place in some countries.”

Professor Herve Stolowy Universite Laval