Details revealed of new French whistleblowing protections
France aims for improved corporate culture with the introduction of new whistleblowing protections under a law set up to beat corruption.
Photo: Shutterstock
All French companies employing at least 50 workers must implement a framework for whistleblowing by 1 January 2018, it has been decreed.
The Law on Transparency and Anti-Corruption was enacted in December 2016. For the first time in French law, it provides a definition of a "whistleblower", which covers situations where an act of corruption is reported.
Olivier Lopez, founder of TsL Avocats, writes on the Brink blog: "Like similar laws in the US and UK, the law has an exceptionally broad reach.
"For example, French prosecutors can still target corruption under the law whether or not the acts are considered corruption abroad, as long
For thoughtful journalism, expert insights on corporate governance and an extensive library of reports, guides and tools to help boards and directors navigate the complexities of their roles, subscribe to Board Agenda
Related Stories
-
Businesses ‘vulnerable’ if they fail to confront climate risk
Academics tell climate change disclosure task force business leaders need to take the Paris climate change agreement seriously or increase the risks to their business models.
-
Sports Direct debacle prompts desire to change listing rules
Large institutional shareholders may consider a call to change UK listing rules to counter governance failings seen at Sports Direct.
-
D&O litigation on the rise amid host of emerging risks
Directors face liability over a range of new threats, with data breaches, executive misconduct and climate boosting D&O litigation claims.
