Whistleblowing

The WHO policy on Whistleblowing and protection against retaliation applies to all those (staff or others) who report, in good faith, suspected wrongdoing of corporate significance to WHO and may be subject to retaliatory action as a result.

Wrongdoing that implies a significant risk to WHO includes, but is not limited to:

• fraud
• corruption
• waste of resources
• sabotage
• substantial and specific danger to public health or safety
• sexual exploitation and abuse.

WHO’s whistleblowing policy is rooted in the following underlying approach:

staff members have an obligation to report wrongdoing;

the Organization has a duty to protect whistleblowers against retaliation;

the Organization has a duty to address wrongdoing by instituting remedies and taking disciplinary action as appropriate;

and retaliation constitutes misconduct.

Non-staff members are also encouraged to report any suspicious wrongdoing to WHO.

The identity of a whistleblower that comes forward for advice regarding the reporting of suspected wrongdoing is protected. Confidentiality will only be waived with their express consent.

By providing protection to staff and non-staff members, WHO is able to learn about and respond to wrongdoing. This enhances our accountability and supports the integrity of WHO’s operations and programmes.