ABSTRACT
A whistleblowing culture cannot succeed without a strong and clear signal from the very top of the organization that it is against corruption and is resolved to go about its business lawfully. Such a culture will provide assurances against reprisals for whistleblowing on wrongdoing. These will apply even where the whistleblower is mistaken, provided he or she acted honestly and reasonably. In terms of disclosures, such a culture will direct the worker toward seeking impartial advice (be it from unions, lawyers, professional bodies or a designated ethics service) and/or to blowing the whistle internally or with the person responsible. This will help ensure that even if the whistleblower is mistaken, no unwarranted damage is done to the organization or to individuals within it. Critically, it provides a safe and viable alternative to silence.
