What is a "whistleblower"?

A "whistleblower" is defined as a person who reports unethical or illegal activities within an organization, including within bureaucracies. This individual typically raises concerns about misconduct, waste, fraud, or abuse when they believe that such actions are occurring in their workplace or within government operations. Whistleblowers play a critical role in promoting accountability and transparency, often risking their own careers or personal safety to expose wrongdoing.

This concept is important in the context of federal bureaucracy, as it helps to ensure that government agencies operate ethically and in the public interest. Legal protections are often in place to safeguard whistleblowers from retaliation, emphasizing the value placed on exposing corruption and fostering a culture of integrity within government institutions.