Saudi Whistleblower Protection Law Takes Effect
A landmark law providing legal protection for whistleblowers, witnesses, and victims in Saudi Arabia has been implemented, marking a significant step towards strengthening anti-corruption efforts in the kingdom.
A New Era of Transparency and Accountability
Approved earlier this year by the Saudi government, the law aims to safeguard individuals who provide information about crimes, ensuring their identities and addresses are protected during the litigation process. Witnesses will also be shielded from public view while giving testimony before the court, with technological measures such as voice and image alteration used to conceal their identities.
Key Provisions of the Law
- Protection for whistleblowers: Individuals who provide information about crimes will have their identities and addresses safeguarded during the litigation process.
- Witness protection: Witnesses will be shielded from public view while giving testimony before the court, with measures in place to conceal their identities.
- Penalties for disclosure of protected information: Individuals who deliberately disclose information that could harm protected whistleblowers, witnesses, or victims face up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of SR200,000.
Strengthening Anti-Corruption Efforts
The Saudi public prosecution has established a centre to provide justice protection for those at risk of harm, threats, or assaults due to their cooperation with authorities. The new law is seen as a crucial component of the country’s broader efforts to revamp its justice system and combat corruption.
Recent Reforms
In recent years, the kingdom has taken significant steps towards strengthening its anti-corruption laws and institutions, including:
- Establishment of an anti-corruption agency: A dedicated agency has been created to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption.
- Creation of a special court for high-profile corruption cases: A specialized court has been set up to try complex corruption cases.