Slovakia: A Worrying Move to Weaken Whistleblower Protection

 The Slovak Parliament has approved fast-tracking a bill that could eliminate fundamental rules protecting whistleblowers. The bill, set to be voted on next week, would dismantle the Office for the Protection of Whistleblowers (WPO) and replace it with a new, weaker entity. It would also introduce retroactive changes that undermine legal certainty for more than 100 individuals already under protection, exposing them to the risk of retaliation for exposing wrongdoing. These proposals contradict European Union directives on whistleblower protection and jeopardize Slovakia's compliance with EU law. Slovakia has long been considered a model in Europe for its rules protecting those who speak out against corruption. Thanks to these efforts, public trust in authorities and institutions has grown, and citizens' willingness to report misconduct to the WPO has steadily increased. This progress is now at risk of being lost. Whistleblowers play a crucial role in safeguarding the public interest by exposing wrongdoing, corruption, and malpractice. For example, uncovering fraudulent public spending can prompt actions to enhance oversight, ensuring that public funds are used for services that benefit society, such as healthcare and environmental protection. Our colleagues in Slovakia, along with other civil society groups, warn that this move does not serve the country's national interest and will not only erode institutional independence but could also harm Slovakia's standing within the European Union. Transparency International and its Slovak chapter are calling on Slovak MPs not to support the bill. Protecting whistleblowers means protecting the rule of law. What is at stake next week is the integrity of Slovakia's democracy.