In this thematic report the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation on human rights defenders, Mary Lawlor, recognises whistleblowers as human rights defenders and recommends UN Member States prioritise the adoption and implementation of legislative and other measures to protect informants and whistleblowers, including comprehensive whistleblower protection laws in line with international human rights standards and best practices. The report defines best practice to be protecting whistleblowers against all forms of retaliation, ensuring the confidentiality of the identity of whistleblowers and providing personal protection measures to whistle-blowers whose lives or safety are in jeopardy.