According to the Swedish whistleblowing law (2021:890), organizations have an obligation to provide safe, accessible, and confidential channels for whistleblowing. The Chief of Staff is often responsible for ensuring that these systems are in place and work in practice. In Sweden, the law goes beyond the minimum requirements of the EU by requiring both written and verbal reporting channels, as well as the possibility of physical meetings if the whistleblower so wishes. The CoS must ensure that reports are handled quickly, impartially, and confidentially, and that no retaliation is directed against the whistleblower. It is also the CoS’s responsibility to train staff on the whistleblowing system and ensure that the procedures are known and readily accessible. In the event of suspected serious misconduct, the CoS must ensure that the matter is investigated and that necessary measures are taken, as well as that reporting is made to relevant authorities as needed. CoS must also document the handling and follow up to ensure that the organization meets the law’s requirements for feedback and protection for whistleblowers.
138 words
1–2 minutes
Category:
Risk & Compliance
