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Whistle-Blower Policy

International Humanistic Aid (IHA)

Last updated: January 2026

International Humanistic Aid (IHA) is committed to integrity, transparency, and accountability in all its work. This Whistle-blower Policy provides a safe and confidential way for people to report serious concerns about wrongdoing connected to IHA.

 

IHA encourages people to speak up without fear. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises concerns honestly and in good faith.

1. Purpose of This Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Encourage early reporting of misconduct or wrongdoing.
  • Provide clear and safe reporting options.
  • Protect whistle-blowers from retaliation.
  • Ensure concerns are handled fairly, confidentially, and promptly.
This policy aligns with recognised international NGO standards and Australian whistle-blower protections.

2. Who this Policy Applies to

This policy applies to anyone who has a relationship with IHA, including:

  • Employees and former employees
  • Volunteers and interns
  • Board members and officers
  • Contractors, consultants, and suppliers
  • Partners and affiliates
  • Donors and members of the public

3. What you can Report

You are encouraged to report serious concerns, including:

  • Fraud, corruption, or theft
  • Misuse of funds or resources
  • Bribery or conflicts of interest
  • Abuse, exploitation, or harassment (including sexual misconduct)
  • Breaches of laws, regulations, or IHA policies
  • Serious risks to health, safety, or the environment
  • Conduct that undermines humanitarian principles.
  • Attempts to conceal wrongdoing.
This policy is not intended for personal grievances or routine complaints unless they involve serious wrongdoing.

4. Good Faith Reporting

Reports should be made:

  • Honestly and in good faith
  • With reasonable belief that the information is true
  • You do not need to have proof. However, knowingly making false or malicious reports may result in action.

5. How to Report a Concern

You can raise concerns in any of the following ways:
  • By email to a designated whistle-blower contact: [insert secure email]
  • By written report marked “Confidential – Whistle-blower”.
  • Through a trusted senior staff member or Board representative
  • Reports may be made anonymously, where permitted by law.

6. Confidentiality and Anonymity

IHA will:

  • Keep your identity confidential as far as possible.
  • Only share information on a strict need-to-know basis.
  • Take steps to reduce the risk of identification.
  • In some cases, disclosure may be required by law, but this will be handled carefully.

7. Protection from Retaliation

IHA strictly prohibits retaliation against whistle-blowers.

Retaliation includes:

  • Dismissal, demotion, or loss of work
  • Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination
  • Threats or adverse treatment
  • Anyone who engages in retaliation may face disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contracts.

8. Support for Whistle-Blowers

Where appropriate, IHA may provide:

  • Access to support services
  • Reasonable adjustments to protect wellbeing.
  • Clear communication about the process

9. How Reports are Handled

All reports are:

  • Assessed promptly and fairly.
  • Reviewed by authorised personnel or the Board.
  • Investigated in a confidential and impartial manner.
  • Managed in a way that minimises harm.
  • IHA will take appropriate action if wrongdoing is identified.

10. Outcome and Feedback

Where possible and appropriate, IHA will:

  • Acknowledge receipt of the report
  • Provide updates on progress.
  • Inform the whistle-blower when the matter is closed.
  • Details may be limited to protect confidentiality and legal obligations.

11. False or Malicious Reports

IHA takes all concerns seriously. However, deliberately false or malicious reports may result in disciplinary or legal action.

12. Relationship with Other Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

  • Code of Conduct
  • Safeguarding Policy
  • Anti-Fraud and Anti-Corruption Policy
  • Privacy Policy

13. Review of this Policy

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective, lawful, and aligned with best practice.

14. Contact Details

For whistle-blower reports or questions about this policy, contact:

Standing with humanity. Protecting dignity. Saving lives.