Ensuring the Protection of Whistleblowers in Public Administration: The Experience of Georgia

Abstract

This article reviews the role of the institute of whistleblowers in modern system of public administration and its connections to fighting corruption and detecting violations of legislative and ethical norms in public and private sectors. In this context, the article discusses the experience of Georgia, post-Soviet country that is in democratic transition with nascent norms and mechanisms for whistleblower protection. Specifically, the article analyzes Georgia’s legislative norms and their practical application by bringing specific examples from within the country and abroad. This is complemented by the analysis of international norms and mechanisms the adoption of which would improve the status quo in the field and encourage more people in the Georgian state and civil service and beyond to raise their voices against injustices and unlawful and corrupt behavior. The article ends with the conclusion and a list of recommendations tailored to the Georgian context.