Blogs

22nd May 2025

4 Powerful Whistleblowing Examples: The Impact of Speaking Up

The Rise of Whistleblowing: How Transparency Drives Positive Change in the Workplace

In recent years, the number of whistleblowing incidents in the United States has surged. The pandemic played a significant role in this increase by distancing employees from their colleagues and company culture. This physical separation allowed many individuals to identify internal issues and prompted them to speak out about organizational problems.

At the same time, companies are embracing transparency more than ever before, making whistleblowing and anonymous reporting essential tools for fostering a culture of openness. These systems not only give employees the confidence to voice concerns but also encourage better communication and stronger ethical standards within organizations.

Here are some real-world examples demonstrating how whistleblowing can drive positive change, improve work environments, and address internal corruption.

1. Whistleblowing Promotes Inclusion in the Workplace

Even well-meaning managers can sometimes overlook the diverse needs of their workforce. For instance, SPORTISIMO, a sports equipment retailer, introduced a whistleblowing system and started receiving reports on small yet significant workplace issues, like the lack of certain shoe sizes for women. These reports led to actionable changes that significantly improved the work environment, helping employees feel more valued and supported.

Addressing such concerns can lead to a more inclusive, productive, and satisfied workforce.

2. Whistleblowing Exposes Harmful Corporate Practices

A major whistleblowing event occurred in 2021, when internal Facebook (now Meta) documents were leaked to The Wall Street Journal, lawmakers, and regulators. These documents revealed that Meta was aware of the negative impact its platforms, particularly Instagram, were having on teenagers. One study even found that 13% of teenagers in the UK linked Instagram to suicidal thoughts.

Despite this knowledge, the company did little to mitigate the harm. However, when Frances Haugen, a former employee, testified about these concerns, it led to Meta halting its plans for an Instagram for Kids and rethinking its platform practices.

If Meta had acted on its internal whistleblower reports earlier, this public scandal could have been avoided, and the company would have been able to address these issues before they escalated.

3. Whistleblowing Helps Prevent Workplace Abuse

In another example, a government office implemented a whistleblowing system that revealed instances of abuse and bullying within one of its departments. Upon investigating the claims, the organization took swift action by removing the department head. This action showed that the company was committed to protecting its employees and fostering a safe, respectful work environment.

Such systems help ensure that issues of abuse are reported and handled promptly, making the workplace a better environment for everyone.

4. Whistleblowing Encourages Open Communication and Support

Whistleblowing isn’t always about exposing wrongdoing—it can also serve to open up lines of communication. One organization set up an anonymous whistleblowing platform, only to discover that most reports weren’t about misconduct but were from employees who felt anxious about failure or were seeking clarification.

By addressing these concerns, the company created a more open and supportive atmosphere, where employees felt safe asking for help and guidance. Over time, more employees came forward, knowing they could share their concerns without fear of judgment.

Final Thoughts: The Growing Importance of Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing is an invaluable tool for addressing internal issues, uncovering corruption, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. As governments worldwide continue to strengthen protections for whistleblowers, organizations are encouraged to adopt these systems to safeguard their employees and improve overall workplace integrity.

Need help setting up a whistleblowing platform that aligns with your organisation’s needs? Reach out for expert guidance on introducing an effective and secure whistleblowing system.