The Effectiveness of Whistleblowing in Reducing Corruption

Abstract:

Corruption is a timeless, system-transcending, cross-generational phenomenon that
affects all organizations to a greater or lesser extent. Entities undertake numerous measures aimed at reducing it. In this regard, whistleblowers can perform a crucial role. Whistleblowing - that is, reporting irregularities, is currently one of the most effective mechanisms for detecting and preventing fraud, abuse and corruption. Its effectiveness in reducing corrupt behavior depends on the transparency of internal procedures, the implementation of mechanisms enabling the secure transmission of information, and its proper institutionalization within the compliance framework. The aim of this publication was to assess the use of whistleblowing as a tool for reporting corruption-related irregularities in business entities. The methodology used was based on quantitative and qualitative analysis. The assessment, using published reporting information from the entities, examined the implementation of whistleblowing as a mechanism to reduce corrupt practices and its use for notifying and disclosing corrupt activities.