WHO PROTECTS WHISTLEBLOWERS IN EUROPE? Members of the Network of European Integrity and Whistleblowing Authorities and their Competence
Whistleblowing is an important tool for the exposure of illegal activities and wrongdoings committed in organizations in both public and private sectors and thus contributes to upholding the moral and legal standards of these organizations and the society as a whole. Protection of whistleblowers in Europe has become more present in the wider public debate, particularly following the adoption of the Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law. In response to these developments, the international network NEIWA (The Network of European Integrity and Whistleblowing Authorities) was established, which brings together public organizations responsible for protection of whistleblowers in the European Union.
At the time of drafting the report, NEIWA had 27 members and 2 observers. The aim of this report is to introduce the organizations associated with the network and to present an overview of their powers and competencies both in the field of supporting and protecting whistleblowers as well as in education and awareness raising.