Beyond Compliance: The Role of Corporate Governance in Shaping Whistleblower Protection Policies

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of selective good corporate governance practices on the development of mandatory whistleblower protection policies in corporations. Using a coding instrument aligned with legislative requirements, we analyzed 66 whistleblower policies to assess their comprehensiveness and alignment with best practices. The findings reveal that, except for executive gender diversity, most good governance practices do not significantly contribute to the development of comprehensive whistleblower policies. The results suggest that many corporations adopt a minimum compliance approach, treating mandatory whistleblower policies as a legal requirement rather than a genuine commitment to fostering whistleblower protection. Drawing on Compliance Theory, this study highlights the need for a deeper understanding of how corporate governance practices impact the integrity and organizational commitment to whistleblower protection.