The scope of the law

Under the new law, a whistleblower is someone who provides information on violations within an institution in which he or she serves, is employed by or has a contract with, and who has been recognised as a whistleblower by a competent authority.

The law provides protection when information is provided on: violations that threaten public health and safety, a person’s life, health or the environment; attempts to obstruct or unlawfully influence investigations carried out by law enforcement authorities or the work of the courts in enacting justice; cases of unlawful funding, unlawful or non-transparent use of public funds or property, as well as various others.

Whistleblowers cannot be held liable for the information they provide

The body that is notified about a whistleblower must protect their identity, but they cannot remain anonymous as they have to provide details confirming their identity, as well as their contact details. However, they cannot be held legally liable for the information they provide about violations and they cannot be sued for defamation or slander if they reasonably believe that the information provided is correct.

Under to the law, whistleblowers who were involved in a violation, but notified a competent authority about it, may be exempted from liability for the part they played in that violation.

Remuneration for whistleblowers criticised

Although there is no doubt that the Law on Protection of Whistleblowers has strengthened the protection of whistleblowers under Lithuanian law, it has also been subject to some criticism, especially concerning the possibility of paying whistleblowers for valuable information.