Armenia Introduces Electronic Platform for Whistle-Blowing

============================

In a move to strengthen anti-corruption efforts, the Government of Armenia has introduced an electronic platform for whistle-blowing, aimed at ensuring the protection of individuals who report crimes and corruption.

Key Features of the Platform

• The unified electronic platform will allow citizens to anonymously submit information about crimes and corrupt activities to the Prosecutor General’s Office.
• Whistle-blowers’ identities will remain confidential, with their Internet Protocol Addresses coded to protect their anonymity.
• The platform will collect necessary information and facts regarding anonymous reports, helping investigators take swift action against those involved in corrupt activities.

Protection of Whistle-Blowers

Guaranteed Protection

Under Article 10 of the law, whistle-blowers have the right to:

• Protection from harmful actions and consequences
• Confidentiality of their personal data
• Protection for legal persons acting as whistle-blowers, where applicable

Judicial Protection

Article 12 of the law provides judicial protection for whistle-blowers against whom harmful actions have been initiated due to their whistle-blowing activities. Additionally, individuals related to whistle-blowers who face harm due to their link to the whistleblower are also entitled to judicial protection.

Obligation to Act in Good Faith

Whistle-blowers are obligated to act in good faith, as outlined in Article 13 of the law. This means that they must:

• Have reasonable grounds for suspicion regarding a case of corruption or violation
• Have undertaken measures to verify the veracity and completeness of the information within their real opportunities

Entry into Force

The law will enter into force on January 1, 2018, with the creation of the unified electronic platform expected before July 1, 2018.