This page provides an overview of the EU Whistleblowing Directive and its connection to the EU AI Act, along with practical resources for potential whistleblowers. It was compiled by Santeri Koivula, an EU Fellow at the Future of Life Institute, and Karl Koch, founder of the AI Whistleblower Initiative.
The EU Whistleblowing Directive protects individuals who report breaches of EU law by mandating clear reporting channels and safeguarding whistleblowers from retaliation. These protections cover a broad range of people working in a professional context, including employees, contractors, suppliers, job applicants, and former staff.
Reports may be made internally within an organisation, externally to competent national authorities, or publicly when there is an urgent public interest or a risk of retaliation. As of 2 August 2025, whistleblowing protections explicitly include violations of the EU AI Act, although certain AI-related concerns may already be covered under existing rules.
A variety of institutions and organisations provide free legal, psychological, and technical assistance to whistleblowers. Reaching out early can help secure the strongest possible protection. What you’ll find in this post: Introduction. The relationship between the EU AI Act and the Whistleblowing Directive. Understanding the EU Whistleblowing Directive. Safeguards from reprisal. Who receives protection? (dominio personale). What is eligible for reporting?
EU Artificial Intelligence Act