Poland’s Deadline Looms as Whistleblower Protection Remains Unimplemented

Despite a two-year deadline set by the European Union, Poland has yet to enact legislation fulfilling the provisions of the Whistleblower Protection Directive. The new government has made implementing this directive a priority, with expectations that the Polish Act on the Protection of Whistleblowers will be enacted in the first quarter of 2024.

Timeline for Implementation

• Businesses employing at least 50 employees and public sector entities will soon be required to implement protective procedures for whistleblowers.
• Legal entities operating in financial services, anti-money laundering, countering terrorism financing, transport safety, and environmental protection will need to establish internal reporting procedures, regardless of the number of workers.

Consequences of Delay

According to Magdalena Wilkoszewska, Director of the Labour Law Department at TGC Corporate Lawyers, this means that these businesses must be prepared to implement such procedures in a relatively short timeframe. As Poland’s deadline approaches, it remains unclear whether the country will meet its obligations under the EU directive.

Importance of Whistleblower Protection

The implementation of whistleblower protection measures is crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability within financial institutions. If left unimplemented, Poland risks facing legal action from the European Union.

What’s at Stake

• Poland’s failure to implement whistleblower protection could lead to legal action from the EU.
• The lack of protection could undermine trust in financial institutions and hinder transparency and accountability.
• Businesses operating in regulated sectors may face significant fines or reputational damage if they fail to comply with the directive.