Gender, Intersectionality and Whistleblowing

In this research area, we address whether and how gender and sexuality can impact whistleblowing disclosures. To date, whistleblower research tends to be gender-blind.  We examine the impacts of gender across the duration of disclosure: from initial speak-up within the organization, through to external disclosure and being ‘named’ as a whistleblower.

BRIGHT Work Package: Infusing Gender and Intersectionality into European Whistleblowing Frameworks

How do a whistleblower's gender and other protected characteristics impact experiences of disclosure? What tools and approaches can be developed to enhance inclusion in whistleblowing processes? This research adopts an intersectional perspective and is funded by the European Commission's CERV programme as part of the BRIGHT: "Building Resilience through Integrity, Good Governance, and Honesty Training" project. Professor Kate Kenny works alongside Wim Vandekerckhove from EDHEC Business School and the European Whistleblowing Institute (EWI).

The objectives of Work Package 4 are:

• To create an inclusive whistleblowing environment that considers the unique experiences and challenges of individuals across all genders, identity categories and backgrounds.
• To educate organizations, institutions, and the public about the importance of an intersectional approach to whistleblowing.
• To develop and implement systems for measuring and evaluating whistleblowing culture through a gender and intersectionality framework.

The first output reports on a comprehensive review of literature on gender, intersectionality, and organizations, relating to whistleblower disclosures, recipients, public policy, institutions, and law. This activity is a necessary foundation for WP 4. Key journals, sources, and keywords were examined, while secondary empirical research was included.

BRIGHT is a holistic endeavour that brings together various stakeholders, including civil society, practitioners, and researchers, to effect positive change. Through research, capacity building, advocacy, and policy dialogue, we aim to drive progressive improvements in European whistleblowing practices.