The Whistleblowing Act, which became effective on February 4, 2022, grants individuals the right to report concerns related to public and private sectors if they perceive a threat to the public interest within the workplace.
Whistleblowing provides an opportunity for everyone to support the legitimate, fair, open, and transparent operation of institutions by exercising their right to express their views freely
Are you a whistleblower?
- You have information about a potential violation that could harm the public interest.
- This information is obtained in the course of work.
- You have reason to believe that this information is true.
- There is a risk that you may have adverse consequences if you report.
A whistleblowing report may be submitted
- via electronic form on a website on the www.trauksmescelejs.lv
- or by filling out the form.
The Act stipulates that reports of infringements may be submitted through various means, including an internal whistleblowing system. This implies that any person employed by an institution may become aware of any alleged breach that poses a significant public interest risk within the institution's operations, with the aim of addressing it promptly before it affects the institution's reputation or involves relevant national authorities. Employees have the unique opportunity to identify potential wrongdoing and assess associated risks based on their professional knowledge and experience.
Utilizing an internal whistleblowing system for reporting brings the report closest to the 'root cause' of the issue, allowing for a swift assessment of raised concerns and the potential resolution of violations or identification of systemic deficiencies
After the submission of a report by an individual is recognized as a whistleblower's report, the personal data of the submitter will be pseudonymized.
The personal data of the whistleblower, the report, any written or material evidence attached to it, as well as the materials used for reviewing the whistleblower's report, will be classified as restricted access information
Any person or institution that receives or takes any action on a whistleblower's report must ensure the adequate protection of the whistleblower's personal data. The personal data of a whistleblower may only be shared with individuals or institutions when it is necessary for the examination of a whistleblower's report or a case initiated based on it, or for the protection of the whistleblower and their relatives. You can find more information about whistleblower protection on the trauksmescelejs.lv.
Contact persons of the institution may be contacted for advice on the possibility of raising an alert and for information on the progress of the examination of their report.
For whistleblowers to contact the contact person of the data State Inspectorate in case of whistleblowing, please write to: trauksme@dvi.gov.lv.