Understanding Whistleblowing in Practice: Experiences in The Netherlands

Abstract

Whistleblowers face an intensive trajectory when reporting wrongdoing. What can we learn from the experiences of whistleblowers? This article aims to give a deeper understanding of the process of whistleblowing by exploring stories and experiences of whistleblowers with their report of wrongdoing in the Netherlands. The study identifies similarities and themes in these stories. Results of 20 in-depth interviews reveal that being a whistleblower entails motivation, action, well-being, and the reaction of the organization. We conclude that these aspects all influence the process of whistleblowing, as well as the behavior of the whistleblower. Our study contributes to both practice and literature by examining these stories and their implications to support whistleblowers.