Whistleblower software
EU Whistleblower Directive for Companies
The EU Whistleblower Directive is an EU legal framework that applies to companies inside and/or outside the EU. It is intended to support employees in reporting unethical activities within the company. Important: As each EU Member State is responsible for further implementation at national level, you should ensure that you comply with the requirements of the law that applies to you. What exactly does the EU Whistleblower Directive entail? Who can be a whistleblower? And how can you ensure your compliance with consentmanager ’s whistleblower software?
Read on to learn about the current status of the whistleblower policy, its requirements, and future features of our whistleblower software.
What is the EU Whistleblower Directive?
The EU Whistleblower Directive (or EU Whistleblower Directive), also known as Directive (EU) 2019/1937, is a piece of legislation designed to improve the protection of whistleblowers by creating a safe and consistent environment for individuals. Whistleblowers are people who report misconduct in the workplace and the aim of the policy is to enable them to do so without fear of reprisal.
The directive was introduced by the European Union in 2019. Each of the 27 EU member states had until December 17, 2021 to implement the requirements of the directive into their national legal and institutional systems.
consentmanager whistleblower software
Our whistleblower software provides your company with all the necessary tools and an easy-to-use system so that you can easily comply with the EU Whistleblowing Directive and the Whistleblower Protection Act (HinschG).
What functions does the consentmanager whistleblower software offer?
Secure and easily accessible reporting channels: Our whistleblower software offers secure and easily accessible reporting channels. A special form is available to whistleblowers with which they can report abuses at any time and from any location.
- Simple user interface: Our whistleblower software has an intuitive and user-friendly interface that guides the whistleblower through the reporting process. This includes clear instructions on how to file a report and all required documents.
- Anonymity of whistleblowers: The whistleblower software from consentmanager enables whistleblowers to report anonymously. Your identity will be protected throughout the reporting process in accordance with the strict privacy requirements of the Whistleblower Policy.
Secure data storage: Special permissions can be assigned to access the messages. Our software ensures that all report and whistleblower data is stored securely and in accordance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and data retention requirements, so only authorized personnel have access to this data.
This is how the whistleblower software from consentmanager works
Whistleblowers can easily file a report using the online form, which you can embed into your website by simply copying and pasting script code. Alternatively, you can provide your employees with QR codes that employees can scan and fill out the form offline. This flexibility ensures that reports can be submitted anonymously. Once submitted, the messages are directly accessible via the consentmanager dashboard, where they can be carefully managed and categorized according to their processing status, e.g. as just received, in progress or already resolved.
Current status of the EU Whistleblower Directive
Companies based in EU member states and with at least 50 employees must set up a system that ensures the safety of whistleblowers and offers a safe and legally compliant reporting option. It should be noted that further changes are expected in different countries, as each Member State within the European Union can introduce additional requirements. The Whistleblower Protection Act (HinschG), which came into force on July 2, 2023, applies to companies in Germany.
Make sure your business remains compliant. Check your compliance now for free with the consentmanager .
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Not sure if you need whistleblower software?
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions here.
The EU directive on reporting whistleblowers and similar laws in many other countries, such as the Whistleblower Protection Act (HinschG) in Germany, offer whistleblowers a high level of protection. You are protected from retaliation such as dismissal, demotion or harassment for reporting wrongdoing. Their identity is also protected so that they can report abuses anonymously and confidentially. However, the extent of protection may vary depending on applicable laws and regulations and it may be difficult in practice to ensure full protection. Whistleblowers are advised to follow proper reporting procedures and cooperate with relevant authorities to maximize their protection. In addition, protection may not extend to whistleblowers who committed or were involved in the reported misconduct, as these individuals may be subject to criminal prosecution.
According to the EU Whistleblower Directive, organizations operating in the European Union are generally obliged to set up a whistleblower system if they meet certain criteria. In particular, companies with at least 50 employees are obliged to set up internal reporting mechanisms. Companies must also provide clear instructions on how employees can report misconduct within the company and how they are protected as whistleblowers. However, the exact criteria and requirements may vary from country to country, so it is advisable to check with local authorities for the exact details.
To comply with the EU Whistleblower Directive, you should set up a secure and easily accessible reporting channel. These channels serve as the primary means for employees and stakeholders to report instances of misconduct. Companies should create a safe environment that encourages individuals to raise concerns and ensure that reports can be made without fear of retaliation. These reporting mechanisms play a key role in promoting transparency and accountability within organizations, enabling the timely identification and resolution of issues that might otherwise go unaddressed.
Please note that we cannot provide legal advice. Some points of this FAQ may also change over time or be interpreted differently by courts. That’s why you should always consult your lawyer!
