Reporting Channel for Violations

Individuals who, in connection with their work, discover or suspect violations of the public interest within specified areas of EU law or national law should be able to report this in a safe manner.

The reporting channel is not a general means for “feedback” but a service established specifically for the reporting of serious violations.
Reports can be submitted anonymously. Intentionally reporting false information is a criminal offense and may result in liability for damages.

When should the channel be used?

You can report a misconduct that you've learned about in a work-related context, which is of public interest to bring to light. This could include bribery, fraud, theft, conflict of interest, inappropriate secondary activities, or a situation where someone gains personal benefit or advantage due to their position. It might also involve favoritism towards relatives or serious deviations from internal guidelines and regulations in service.

Remember, you don't need to have proof that your report is true; it is enough to have reasonable grounds to believe the information about the misconduct is accurate. However, it is not allowed to lie or knowingly provide false information in your report.

What is not a whistleblower case?

Being dissatisfied with your salary or having issues with a colleague or manager are typically not matters intended for the whistleblower function.

The purpose is not to act as a law enforcement function. If you suspect a crime, you should report it to the police. Allegations of criminal acts received through the whistleblower channel may be forwarded to law enforcement authorities depending on what is uncovered during the investigation and follow-up of the reporting.

Who can be covered by the protection for reporting persons?

current and former employees as well as job applicants
employees working for subcontractors or suppliers
interns and volunteers

Protection under the whistleblower law is provided to individuals who report wrongdoing discovered in a work-related context. This protection prohibits retaliation against the reporting person. For example, the employer may not worsen the terms of employment for the reporting person, terminate their employment, or lay them off as a result of the report.

Additionally, the protection extends to individuals who assist the reporting person in the reporting process or who are connected to the reporting person and due to their work or position risk being subjected to retaliation because of the report. Such a person could be a union representative, a safety delegate, another employee representative, or the reporting person's contractual partner, colleague, or relative.

Here’s how to make a report

Reporting Channel

How are the reports handled?

You will receive an electronic confirmation that the report has been received. The reports are handled by the Chief Financial Officer, the Administrative Chief, and the Administrative Secretary (appointed by the municipal board on March 27, 2023, § 53). The handlers may ask you questions via the reporting channel if needed, and feedback is also provided to you on what type of actions are taken based on your report.

Security and anonymity are of utmost importance, so you can feel confident in sharing your information. The identity of the reporting person is confidential, even during the further processing of the report.

Processing begins within 7 days and a decision is issued within 3 months.