Under the Whistleblowers Protection Act in the Netherlands, integrity issues refer to acts or practices within an organization that violate laws, regulations, ethical standards or codes of conduct. They often involve social wrongdoing that can be harmful to the organization, employees, the public or the environment.
Examples of integrity issues
- Fraud: Dishonest practices for personal gain, such as embezzling money, falsifying records or manipulating financial figures.
- Corruption: offering or accepting bribes or other improper benefits in exchange for influence or favors.
- Violations of laws or regulations: Illegal activities, such as violations of laws or environmental regulations.
- Conflict of interest: When personal interests influence professional decisions or actions, leading to favored or unethical practices.
- Health and safety violations: ignoring safety measures that endanger workers or the public.
- Environmental damage: Illegal or negligent practices that damage the environment, such as waste dumping.
- Abuse of power: Abusing a position or authority for personal gain or to influence or manipulate others.
Protection under the law
The Whistleblower Protection Act encourages employees to report social wrongdoing safely and confidentially. This law provides protection against retaliation, so reporters feel protected to expose unethical practices.
