New whistleblowing rules in Belgium: why it is essential to get it right

New whistleblowing rules are in effect in Belgium as of 15 February 2023: are you ready?

The modern approach to ESG policies and standards requires businesses to protect their staff when they report internal misconduct or malpractice. Businesses are updating their internal whistleblowing policies and procedures to comply with the EU Whistleblowing Directive, as well as local laws being implemented this year, in order to align approaches across their international operations. The transposition of the EU Whistleblowing Directive obliges companies with 50 employees or more to have a reporting channel for a broad spectrum of potential whistleblowers, and forbids retaliation against whistleblowers. Whistleblowing processes also need to be compliant with local data protection laws and the GDPR.

This webinar considers the immediate legal and practical challenges for Belgian companies to conform to this new whistleblowing regulation. We will also cover the importance of an effective whistleblowing regime as part of any Belgian company's approach to ESG policies and standards.