Whistleblowers play a critical role in exposing corruption, protecting public resources and strengthening accountability. However, in EU candidate countries such as Moldova, Montenegro and North Macedonia, the rules to protect whistleblowers are often weak or not systematically enforced.

Key challenges include gaps in alignment with the EU Whistleblowing Directive, limited institutional capacity to manage whistleblower reports, and low public awareness of rights and reporting channels. Many people also do not trust existing systems, fear retaliation and lack access to independent advice, which discourages them from reporting wrongdoing.

Addressing these challenges is essential for strengthening accountability and public trust, and for supporting these countries in meeting EU standards.

What we're doing about it

EWAC, funded by Agence française de développement via Expertise France, works with national partners and key stakeholders to strengthen whistleblower protection systems in Moldova, Montenegro and North Macedonia.

The project focuses on:

• Improving laws and institutional frameworks to protect whistleblowers, including alignment with EU standards such as the EU Whistleblowing Directive

• Increasing public awareness of whistleblowing and building trust in reporting systems, with particular attention to women and vulnerable groups

• Training and supporting public institutions and organisations to create effective gender-sensitive internal reporting channels and strengthen...

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