Whistleblowing: meaning, definitions and examples
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whistleblowing
[ ˈwɪsəlˌbloʊɪŋ ]
legal context
Whistleblowing refers to the act of exposing wrongdoing, unethical behavior, or illegal activities within an organization. It typically involves an employee reporting misconduct to authority figures or the public, which may include issues such as fraud, corruption, or safety violations. Whistleblowers can play a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability.
Synonyms
disclosure, exposure, reporting.
Examples of usage
- The whistleblowing led to an investigation into the company's practices.
- He decided to engage in whistleblowing after witnessing financial misconduct.
- Whistleblowing can protect the public from harmful corporate behavior.
Etymology
The term 'whistleblowing' originated in the 1970s, combining the words 'whistle' and 'blowing.' The whistle metaphorically represents the act of alerting others, akin to a referee blowing a whistle to indicate a foul during a game. The concept gained prominence as a means for individuals to signal misconduct within organizations without fear of retaliation. Initially, it was associated mainly with governmental and corporate accountability. Over time, legal protections for whistleblowers have been established in many countries, recognizing their vital role in exposing corruption and hazardous practices. The practice has evolved to encompass not only employees but also independent activists and journalists advocating for transparency and ethical standards in various sectors.