What is the role of a whistleblower?

The role of a whistleblower is primarily to disclose potential wrongdoing that threatens public interests. Whistleblowers often bring attention to illegal, unethical, or unsafe practices within an organization that could harm individuals, the environment, society, or the integrity of systems and regulations. They act as a critical mechanism for accountability; their revelations can lead to investigations, reform, and even legal action when necessary.

Whistleblowers are typically motivated by a sense of duty to protect the public or uphold ethical standards, rather than seeking personal gain. Their disclosures can pertain to a variety of issues including fraud, corruption, safety violations, and negligence. By bringing these matters to light, they serve a vital function in upholding transparency and integrity within organizations and across industries.

In contrast, the other roles described, while important, do not encapsulate the essence of what a whistleblower does. Reporting corporate financial earnings generally falls under standardized financial reporting and compliance processes. Conducting audits for compliance is a systematic process undertaken to ensure organizations adhere to internal policies and external regulations. Enforcing regulations involves the application of laws and rules, which is typically the responsibility of regulatory bodies and certain professionals rather than individuals reporting misconduct.