The protection of whistle-blowers and reporting persons is frequently referred to as one of the most effective tools to prevent, detect and ultimately prosecute corruption cases. A robust reporting and protection system is a cornerstone of the fight against corruption and contributes to institutional accountability in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16.
The United Nations Convention against Corruption provides for the protection of reporting persons in its article 33. However, the reluctance of individuals to report alleged wrongdoing or suspected acts of corruption continues to be identified by countries as one of the main challenges in the implementation of the Convention.
Over the years, and with the adoption of more and more laws and international instruments, the idea of reporting persons has been gradually refined and the notion of whistle-blowers has become predominant internationally. However, the concept is not always understood in the same way by all countries and stakeholders. This lack of harmony in adopted definitions can lead to an increase in the risk and vulnerability of persons and make it difficult to distinguish between a whistle-blower and other categories of reporting persons.
An increasing number of States have adopted or strengthened their whistle-blower protection legal and policy frameworks, and UNODC has been receiving a growing and ever more specific number of requests for support from countries.
In December 2023, the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption adopted the first-ever resolution on the protection of reporting persons – resolution 10/8. The resolution highlights the important role that reporting persons play to effectively prevent and combat corruption. It refers to whistle-blowers as a specific category of reporting persons who report corruption in the context of their professional activities or work-related environment.
Protecting whistle-blowers requires strong partnerships that combine expertise and regional insight. UNODC has partnered with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) to support efforts to build robust, safe and inclusive whistle-blower reporting and protection mechanisms across the continent. This collaboration reflects UNODC’s regional platform approach, which promotes the effective implementation of UNCAC by leveraging regional expertise and promoting practical, results-oriented reforms. As an African-led organisation dedicated exclusively to whistle-blower protection, PPLAAF brings critical on-the-ground experience and technical know-how to the partnership.
UNODC, in collaboration with Government Accountability Project and European Commission | 2025
This toolkit, developed with the Government Accountability Project and the European Commission, offers clear and practical guidance, actionable good practices and model provisions to support States in drafting, implementing, and sustaining comprehensive legal frameworks for the protection of whistle-blowers.
UNODC Myanmar, Anti-Corruption Programme | 2023
These model resources (a speak-up policy, flow chart, and processes) support small and medium-sized enterprises in establishing strong anti-corruption ethics and compliance programmes.
UNODC, 2022
This course introduces how organizations can set up effective whistle-blower protection programmes, providing actionable guidance on developing and implementing internal policies and procedures. The course takes approximately 70 minutes to complete.
UNODC, 2021
The guidelines advocate for the internal policies for whistle-blower protection in the health-care sector to detect and address corruption, while mitigating its impacts. It offers a step-by-step process for organizations to facilitate disclosures and protect reporters.
UNODC, 2019
This practical guide supports a range of stakeholders, including sports organizations and federations, clubs, athletes’ unions, sponsors, governmental officials, and regulatory agencies, in developing effective reporting mechanisms to support the integrity of sport.
UNODC, 2015
The guide aims to help States identify what legal and institutional reforms may be needed to meet international requirements relating to the protection of reporting persons and to effectively respond to emerging challenges in this area.
