The implementation of the Law on Whistleblowing and the Protection of Whistleblowers (2017-2020)

No substantial developments have been noticed during the year 2020 regarding the implementation of the Law on Whistleblowing and the Protection of Whistleblowers, approved during the year 2016. An increase in the total number of reported cases turns out to be registered only in 2018, almost more than one year from the implementation of this law. During the next two years (2019 and 2020) this figure has been decreased.

Whistleblowing cases reported to High Inspectorate of Declaration and Audit of Assets and Conflict of Interests (HIDAACI) as an external reporting mechanism, constitute the largest number of reported cases, while the cases reported in the internal reporting units in the private sector constitute the lowest number of reported cases. Regarding the public sector, only during 2020 is registered the highest number of whistleblowing cases.

Two whistleblowing cases reported in a security institution, as one of the targeted institutions within the project: “Strengthen Integrity in Albania’s Security Sector through Improved Whistleblowing Capacities”, implemented by CSDG during the period between October 2018 – September 2019, indicate a very positive achievement in this regard.

Almost more than 4 years since the adoption and implementation of the Law on Whistleblowing and the Protection of Whistleblowers in public and private sector, including the amendments made to the law by the end of 2020, the experience so far has shown that more than as a legal instrument, the success in reporting cases is mainly related to cultural and awareness-raising features, which can serve as motivating factors in denouncing corruption malpractices.

That being the case, but also considering the number of reported corruption cases in Albania which are often made public, the promotion and an extensive analysis of specific whistleblowing cases can serve as a very positive component in increasing and strengthening the culture of whistleblowing, but also in delivering a more comprehensive information on the effects this act has on finances, management, processes and other important public services.