THE FUSE

Although the Draft Protected Disclosures Bill promises stronger protection in future, it may still take several years before it becomes law. Fortunately, South African law already provides remedies for whistleblowers who suffer retaliation. Broadly speaking, the law recognises three different types of remedies. First, a whistleblower may recover the actual financial losses caused by retaliation. Second, they may claim compensation for injury to their dignity, reputational damage and emotional suffering. Third, they may claim compensation for occupational detriment, including unfair dismissals. A whistleblower is not limited to a singular remedy and may claim for a combination of the aforementioned.