Whistleblowing Report Highlights Misconduct Risks and Responses

The Whistleblowing Report 2025, unveiled by EQS Group GmbH and the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, reveals significant findings on organizational misconduct. The study indicates that 39% of companies faced illegal or unethical activities within their operations, while 34% reported issues in supply chains. Strong whistleblowing mechanisms aided almost half of the affected companies in recapturing financial losses.

Notably, the report distinguishes between internal whistleblowing channels for employees and external complaints systems for third parties. Companies with established mechanisms could more successfully limit financial damage. Achim Weick, CEO of EQS Group, emphasizes the rising importance of these systems not only for compliance but also for fostering transparency and trust.

Traditional reporting methods remain prevalent, yet digital platforms are increasingly adopted. Misconduct led to significant financial losses, with 16% of companies incurring over €100,000 in damages. The report also finds that anonymous whistleblowing does not increase abusive reporting.