What is a whistleblower - explained simply and understandably

The news often speaks of a so-called whistleblower. But what is a whistleblower? In our practical tip we give a simple explanation.

Explanation: What is a whistleblower?

A whistleblower describes a person who exposes a scandal or reveals explosive findings and passes them on to the media.

• This information mostly comes from a secret or secure environment and is actually not intended for the public.
• Cases of corruption, trade, human rights violations, or data misuse are typical of whistleblower disclosures.
• As the news from whistleblowers can harm companies or known people, the informants are often at great risk. However, in some countries they enjoy protection under the law.
• The whistleblower is often the only source of investigative journalists working on political affairs or scandals.
• Current examples are the revelations of the so-called Panama Papers or Wikileaks.

In our next practical tip, we will show you where you can watch news online.