Public interest disclosures

What is whistleblowing?

Whistleblowing is the reporting of a breach of the law — an act or omission that violates legal provisions — which the reporting person became aware of in a work-related context (Law No. 361/2022 on the protection of whistleblowers in the public interest).

How to report a breach

A whistleblower may choose from three reporting channels:

1. Internal reporting — through the institution’s internal reporting channel, to the person designated to receive reports;
2. External reporting — to the National Integrity Agency (ANI) or another competent authority under the law;
3. Public disclosure — under the specific conditions set out in Article 19 of the law.

Reports may be made in writing, on paper, electronically or orally. At the whistleblower’s request, a report may also be made during a face-to-face meeting.

Whistleblower protection

• the whistleblower’s identity is confidential and may not be disclosed without their express consent;
• retaliation is prohibited, including dismissal, suspension, demotion, reduction in salary, intimidation or any other form of unfavourable treatment;
• the whistleblower receives acknowledgement of receipt within 7 days and is informed of the progress of the investigation within 3 months of that acknowledgement.

Anonymous reports are also registered and examined if they contain sufficient information.