Transparency International Publishes Report on the Effectiveness of EU Whistleblower Protection
Date Published: 30 April 2026
On 21 April 2026, Transparency International (TI) EU hosted an event in Brussels, 'From Directive to Delivery: Making Whistleblower Protection Work in Europe'. The event brought together representatives of EU institutions, national authorities, civil society, trade unions, and practitioners to examine the practical realities of implementation across Europe. Discussions focused on building effective internal whistleblowing systems, the role of national competent authorities and on translating EU and national legal obligations into meaningful protection. By sharing institutional experiences and comparative insights, the discussions identified best practices, addressed remaining gaps, and generated concrete recommendations to inform the European Commission's ongoing evaluation of the Directive's impact.
At the event, Transparency International, TI Ireland, the Whistleblowing International Network (WIN) and the EU Whistleblowing Monitor published the report 'HOW EFFECTIVE IS WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION IN THE EU?: Trends, gaps and emerging practices across member states'. The report examines how these shortcomings undermine whistleblower protection across the EU. It identifies persistent legal gaps in key areas such as remedies and the burden of proof, alongside fragmented and under-resourced enforcement systems that struggle to prevent retaliation or impose meaningful sanctions. It also highlights limited access to independent advice and support, with civil society organisations frequently filling the gaps without adequate recognition or funding, as well as a lack of systematic and inclusive data collection. The report calls for targeted reforms by Member States and stronger action by the European Commission to reinforce enforcement, ensure full and effective protections, and improve transparency, accountability and support systems for whistleblowers.
Read the report on the WIN resource library.