On International Anti-Corruption Day, the National Whistleblower Center (NWC) calls for stronger global protections for whistleblowers to combat corruption. Each year on December 9th, the United Nations observes International Anti-Corruption Day, a day of recognition that reaffirms the international fight against corruption. This year, ahead of the 11th Conference of the States Parties (CoSP11) to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), NWC underscores the integral role that whistleblowers play in exposing corruption and driving accountability on a global scale.
Throughout 2025, the NWC has made extensive efforts to strengthen protections for whistleblowers internationally. These efforts began at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)’s Global Anti-Corruption Forum in Paris. There, NWC Chairman Stephen Kohn joined whistleblowers, key researchers, and former DOJ officials. They collectively highlighted the international crisis caused by the United States’ declining anti-corruption enforcement. They urged the adoption of key whistleblower frameworks.
In a key article titled “A Reverse Marshall Plan for Anti-Corruption: Liberal Democracies Can Fill the Void Left by the Changes in U.S. Policies, ”Kohn urged other large countries to take active roles in anti-corruption enforcement rather than stand on the sidelines. The article argues for coordinated international efforts to restore integrity and transparency in governance.
Looking ahead, the NWC is preparing for the upcoming 11th Conference of the States Parties (CoSP11) to UNCAC, which will take place in Doha, Qatar, from December 15th to 19th. NWC will be represented by program manager Jeana Lee and international liaison Kate Reeves. They will engage with state parties and civil society organizations to advocate for enhanced whistleblower protections and stronger anti-corruption legislation.
On December 18th, the NWC will host a side panel at CoSP11, moderated by Jeana Lee, that will focus on the necessary tools to protect whistleblowers and hold wrongdoers accountable. The discussion will explore how anti-corruption laws can be effectively used to prosecute crimes and safeguard whistleblowers.
Despite global commitments, many states still lack comprehensive laws to combat transnational bribery and to ensure whistleblowers’ safety. The NWC’s proposed UNCAC resolution and official statement highlight these critical gaps, urging governments to strengthen their legal frameworks and reinforce international cooperation.
NWC Chairman Stephen Kohn stresses, “Strong international protections are essential to empower whistleblowers and ensure accountability globally. Without them, corruption thrives unchecked.” He added that the NWC will continue its work and international cooperation to safeguard whistleblowers and promote transparency in 2026.
