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Free, confidential whistleblowing advice
Call us on 020 3117 2520 or email us

Artist’s Case Brings Fresh Attention to #Fishrot Scandal

The Icelandic artist ODEE (Oddur Eysteinn Friðriksson), has put normal life on hold while he awaits the outcome of a lawsuit against him by one of the largest fishing companies in Europe, the Icelandic-based Samherji. The case relates to his artwork which draws attention to what’s known as the #Fishrot scandal, originally brought to light by whistleblower Jóhannes Stefansson. More than 30 publications/media platforms have now covered the story discussing the consequences of artists using their right to freely express themselves and explore social and political issues.

Whistleblowing charities unite in support of visual artist

Protect has joined more than 25 leading whistleblowing and free expression organistions in calling for one of Europe’s largest fishing companies to drop its punitive legal action against an Icelandic visual artist. The artist, who goes by the name ODEE, has created a series of works drawing attention to alleged corruption committed by the Icelandic firm Samherji. The case centres on practices to secure fishing quotas in Namibia that were revealed in 2019 by the whistleblower, Jóhannes Stefansson, and is known as the #Fishrot Scandal.

Fair Work Agency – how whistleblowing can help deliver a fairer workplace.

They say things come in threes, and if Labour’s proposals to Make Work Pay go ahead as planned they’ll be merging three critical employment agencies together to create the Fair Work Agency. The new Government says the new agency will have ‘teeth’ to issue fines when employers breach employment issues like failing to pay holiday pay or not paying the entitled minimum wage, which according to Citizens Advice could impact close to 2 million people. And its whistleblowing that could make all the difference.

Whistleblowing Payouts at Risk as Tribunal Considers Removal of Injury to Feelings Compensation

A type of compensation claim that has been enshrined in law for more than 20 years is under threat at a hearing taking place this week. In the Employment Appeal Tribunal between Declan Durey and South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust there is a risk that the established “Injury to Feelings” award for whistleblowers could be dismantled. Protect has been given permission to intervene in the case as it gives rise to important issues of public policy.

Exposing the truth: Mental health consequences of whistleblowing

Whistleblower Debbie shares her experiences of mental health and speaking up: the night before I decided to blow the whistle, the anxiety I felt led to me not sleeping a wink. I knew the next day, I’d be pointing the finger at a colleague, essentially calling her a liar. I had undeniable proof, but even more than that, I knew that if I didn’t act, the life of my elderly, vulnerable client would be irreparably changed.

Ignoring whistleblowers should never be acceptable – Protect responds to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry

Reacting to the publication of the final report from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry today, Andrew Pepper-Parsons, the Director of Policy at whistleblowing charity Protect said: “We welcome the report’s recommendations for stronger regulation – but we must ensure that when people speak up to share critical concerns they are listened to and there is a duty on those in leadership positions to address the issues they raise.”

Former FCDO whistleblower, Josie Stewart, joins Protect’s Advisory Council

Former Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) whistleblower, Josie Stewart has joined the whistleblowing charity Protect’s Advisory Council. With her expertise and commitment to exposing wrongdoing, Stewart is set to contribute significantly to the organisation’s mission of protecting whistleblowers and promoting transparency.

What to do if you are threatened with a SLAPP lawsuit

SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) are a powerful threat to freedom of speech and a free press – affecting whistleblowers and journalists alike. They’re essentially a form of reputation management – used by the powerful and the rich to silence their critics or anyone exposing suspected wrongdoing. This guest blog from the the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, outlines steps you can take if you are targeted by a SLAPP.