Our government’s integrity depends on the commitment and effort of millions of federal employees, contractors and grantees around the world. Those same workers are in the best position to learn when decisions and actions deviate from the core mission and responsibilities of government, be it through corruption, failing to comply with laws and regulations, wasting taxpayer money, jeopardizing public health and safety, or otherwise abusing the public trust.
Just in the past year alone, government whistleblowers have exposed abuse of migrants in detention centers, risks to food safety from contaminated pork, President Trump’s efforts to pressure Ukraine to announce an investigation into a political rival, and problems with the government’s response to the coronavirus. Through whistleblowing, ethical truth-tellers provide public service through their speech. But exercising those rights often comes with professional risk.
Government Accountability Project’s newest resource seeks to help federal government employees, contractors, and grantees–across all agencies and issues—who have discovered serious abuses of public trust and need guidance about their rights, risks and options.
Whether you have yet to raise concerns or have already made disclosures, this guide is the first step for navigating the complex path of whistleblowing safely and effectively.
For additional resources about whistleblowing, visit https://whistleblower.org/resources/.
To seek legal assistance from Government Accountability Project, visit https://whistleblower.org/how-to-request-assistance/.