EU whistleblowing rules to change in favor of whistleblowers

Abstract

Purpose To describe the new EU Whistleblowing Directive and its implications. Design/methodology/approach Describes organizations to which the Directive applies, the scope of reportable whistleblowing concerns, whistleblowers’ reporting channels and mechanisms, whistleblower protections, how organizations should respond to whistleblower reports and how organizations should prepare for the new rules. Findings The new Directive will require Member States to create rules for organizations with more than 50 workers, will mandate such organizations to implement whistleblowing hotlines for reporting a broad range of EU law violations, and will contain minimum standards on how to respond to and handle any concerns raised by whistleblowers. Practical implications Organizations in the EU can and should start taking initial steps to prepare for the new rules as soon as possible. There will likely be some differences among whistleblower rules in individual EU Member States. Originality/value Practical guidance from experienced corporate, technology, media, telecommunications and compliance lawyer.