The ILO technical meeting on the protection of whistle-blowers in the public service sector – Geneva, 26-30 September 2022 – discussed for the first time about the protection of whistle-blowers in the public service sector, where public servants in oversight bodies play a key role in detecting and fighting corruption and other wrongdoings.

The constituents acknowledged “there is […] a growing understanding among ILO members concerning the concept that constitutes whistle-blowing”, and that “the effort to protect whistle-blowers should be comprehensive, incorporating national, regional and international cooperation, which will allow governments and social partners to develop strategies to combat corruption and other wrongdoing”.

The reason to have this discussion and address the issue within the ILO is because the protection of whistle-blowers is a decent work matter. Persons who report wrongdoing, malpractice, risk and corruption can face workplace retaliation – from dismissal to ostracization and bullying and harassment in their jobs. 

Speakers:

Opening Remarks – Kate Lappin, AP Regional Secretary, PSI

Tom Devine, Legal Director of Government Accountability Project (GAP), and Trustee of the Whistleblowing International Network (WIN), United States

Camilo Rubiano, PSI TURs & National Administration Officer, France

Q&A and closing remarks