What to know – Addressing common concerns about reporting wrongdoing on World Whistleblower Day

June 18, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 1:58

World Whistleblower Day recognizes the importance of speaking up about wrongdoing and promoting accountability in the workplace. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the protections available to those who come forward and to reinforce the Defence Team's commitment to integrity and ethical conduct.

Whistleblowing is when a public servant or a member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) reports possible wrongdoing to the Defence Team's Internal Disclosure Office (IDO) in good faith and in the public interest. The IDO manages disclosures under the Canadian Armed Forces Disclosure Process (CAF DP) for CAF members and the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act (PSDPA) for public servants.

In addition, public servants may choose to make a disclosure directly to the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner (PSIC); an independent federal organization responsible for investigating wrongdoing and protecting against reprisal.

Setting the record straight

"I am not sure whether the matters I am concerned about qualify as wrongdoing."

Not every workplace concern meets the definition of wrongdoing under the PSDPA or the CAF DP. Wrongdoing generally refers to actions that could seriously impact public trust in the integrity of the public service.

"I am concerned reporting wrongdoing could negatively affect my career or my safety."

The CAF DP and PSDPA include protections for individuals who disclose wrongdoing in good faith. These frameworks are designed to prevent reprisal and to promote a safe and respectful workplace while protecting confidentiality and procedural fairness throughout the process.

"I am not sure if what I have seen should be reported as wrongdoing or addressed through another process."

Personal matters, such as individual harassment complaints or human resources issues, are often better addressed through other available recourse mechanisms such as the grievance process.

If you are unsure, you can contact the IDO for guidance to help determine the most appropriate course of action.

"I want to submit a disclosure anonymously, but I am not sure I can."

You can submit an anonymous disclosure, but it may limit the IDO's response. By providing your contact information, the IDO will be able to make a thorough assessment of your disclosure of wrongdoing. They will be able to talk to you, get a full picture of the situation, and gather any supporting documents you might have.

"If I report wrongdoing, it will immediately lead to further action."

All disclosures made to the IDO are carefully reviewed to determine whether the subject matter falls within the definition of wrongdoing under the PSDPA or CAF DP. The IDO will then provide guidance on available options or refer the matter through the appropriate process.

Learn more

For more information, visit the Internal Disclosure Office intranet web page (accessible only on the National Defence network) or contact the office by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-866-236-4445.