A Comparative Analysis of Criminal Protection for Whistleblowers of Administrative Corruption: A Study of the Legal Systems of Iran and the European Union

Abstract

One of the most fundamental challenges faced by countries is administrative corruption, which has consistently concerned societies. Today, corruption and its control represent a central concern for all countries and international organizations. This concern is clearly reflected in the adoption of conventions and the issuance of numerous resolutions by various international organizations. On the other hand, corruption and the fight against it constitute an essential pillar of any society. Citizens play a crucial role in the detection and prosecution of corruption within any given society. Most anti-corruption strategies have imposed significant financial and human resource burdens on governments, and as social relations grow more complex, increasingly technical and costly solutions are required. One of the most significant strategies in combating administrative corruption is the utilization of social forces and the involvement of civil society in monitoring governmental performance. This approach not only reduces the need to recruit additional personnel and thereby decreases structural costs, but also enhances public trust in the government and fosters a sense of civic responsibility among citizens. Moreover, given the population’s size and geographic dispersion across a country, if effectively implemented, this method can be more comprehensive than other anti-corruption tools. However, if poorly executed, it can be as dangerous as it is beneficial.