Whistleblower Protection
The Issue
Public or private sector employees who report illegal, unethical or abusive institutional behaviour typically face retaliation, which can include discipline, ostracism, social stigmatization, demotion, dismissal, and criminal charges. Laws in Canada to protect whistleblowers are largely ineffective and sometimes counterproductive -- the legal forum created by the laws can be a vehicle for formally endorsing the retaliation.
Why It Matters
Whistleblowing serves vital institutional and public purposes. It allows issues of concern to be identified and resolved internally, where possible, and, where not, it brings alleged wrongdoing to public attention so problems can be corrected and future harm avoided.
Our Work
The Centre’s focus is protecting Canadian society by making public-interest whistleblowing possible through effective protection for Canadian whistleblowers in both the public and private sectors. The CFE Whistleblowing Initiatives (CFEWI) will help make it possible for Canadians to live and work with integrity and to combat misconduct that may threaten the well-being of our communities and our democracy. Our work is guided by the CFEWI Steering Committee. If you wish to contact us securely, click here.
Quick Links
Donate -- Bibliography: Whistleblower Protection -- The Whistleblower's Ordeal -- Whistleblowing: A Practical Guide -- What’s Wrong with Canada’s Federal Whistleblower Legislation -- Bibliography: Whistleblower Protection -- Prominent Canadian Whistleblowers -- Podcast: Don't Shoot the Messenger! The Importance of Whistleblowers in the Public and Corporate Worlds -- Peter Bryce Prize for Whistleblowing
Resources
Dr. John O’Connor wins the 2021 Peter Bryce Prize
Alberta physician John O’Connor was awarded 2021 Peter Bryce Prize that honours individuals who serve the
March 3, 2021
Amélie Perron joins the Centre for Free Expression Whistleblowing Initiatives Steering Committee
University of Ottawa professor of nursing and whistleblowing researcher, Amélie Perron is joining the Centre for Free Expression Whistleblo
March 1, 2021
New study finds reduced harassment and discrimination in Canada’s live entertainment industry
A survey of those working in Canada’s live entertainment industry reported a significant reduction in incidents of harassment and discrimination following introduction of Canadian Actors Equity’s <
October 27, 2020
CFE joins international call for whistleblower protection during COVID-19 crisis
Major whistleblowing organizations from around world, including the Centre for Free Expression, issued a joint letter today calling on governments and institutions to protect those who report or e
April 6, 2020
CFE launches investigation of Phoenix payroll debacle
The Centre for Free Expression at Ryerson University (CFE) has launched an independent investigation of the Phoenix Pay System debacle. The goal of the investigation is to determine if the devastating problems might have been prevented had there been adequate whistleblowing protection for public servants who could have safely alerted their superiors to the impending deficiencies and errors.
October 6, 2018