Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan on Friday approved a landmark bill to strengthen protections for whistleblowers, according to local media. The bill represents a significant move in the country’s fight against corruption and illegal activities.

The Public Welfare Whistleblower Protection Act establishes stringent penalties for civil servants who disclose the identities of whistleblowers, including up to five years of imprisonment and fines reaching NT $300,000 (approximately USD 9,100) for violations. The legislation encourages individuals to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. The bill received bipartisan support from lawmakers across the political spectrum, reflecting a collective recognition of the need to protect those who expose wrongdoing.

Key provisions of the law include protections against dismissal, salary reductions, or adverse changes in job responsibilities for whistleblowers. This comprehensive approach aims to create a safer environment for reporting illegal activities, a significant concern among government employees who often hesitate to come forward due to fears of retaliation.

The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) all emphasized the importance of safeguarding whistleblowers in both public and private sectors. The DPP specifically noted that while protection is crucial, it should not inadvertently promote slander or false accusations against individuals.

The push for legislation protecting whistleblowers in Taiwan has been ongoing for several years, driven by rising public awareness of corruption and the need for greater accountability in both public and private sectors. The act aligns Taiwan with international standards on whistleblower protections, recognizing that effective anti-corruption measures require robust legal frameworks that empower individuals to report illegal activities. Proponents of the legislation say its advancement is a critical step toward enhancing democratic governance and integrity within Taiwanese institutions. By reinforcing legal safeguards, the Taiwanese government has expressed its hope of fostering a culture where exposing misconduct is safe and encouraged.