The Progressive

NewsWire

A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release
Contact:

Lindsey M. Williams (202) 342-1903
lmw@whistleblowers.org

Anti-Corruption NGOs Release Principles for International Whistleblower Legislation

WASHINGTON

In a major development that enhances protections for whistleblowers worldwide, a recommended set of principles for international whistleblower laws endorsed by well-respected NGO's from countries around the world was released today.

In
a worldwide effort spearheaded by Transparency International, experts
on whistleblower laws and advocacy from around the world have been
working extensively to develop these principles for whistleblower
legislation, including participating in an international roundtable in
Prague, Czech Republic. Respected studies,
such as those conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, have all concluded
that fraud is on the rise and that
strong protections for whistleblowers are the key to any
anti-corruption measures. Transparency International, joined by the
National Whistleblowers Center and other anti-corruption groups, have
now released the results of their extensive efforts.

Dr. Gina C. Green, Chair of the Board of Directors for the National Whistleblowers Center, issued the following statement:

"There
is a recognition internationally that protecting whistleblowers is key
to fighting corruption and promoting human rights. The
development of these 27 principles for whistleblower legislation is the
turning point in the global fight against fraud and corruption because
it puts teeth and substance into international
anti-corruption laws."

Since 1988, the NWC and attorneys associated with it have supported whistleblowers in the courts and before Congress and achieved victories for environmental protection, government contract fraud, nuclear safety and government and corporate accountability.