Whistleblowing Channels and Internal Investigations in Electoral and Partisan Contexts: Parameters and Guidelines for Ensuring Integrity and Compliance

Abstract

How to structure an effective whistleblowing channel within an electoral and partisan context? How to proceed with internal investigations to verify the reported allegations? The objectives of this study are twofold: firstly, to establish reliable parameters for the structuring of a whistleblowing channel, and secondly, to develop procedures for internal investigations within political parties and electoral campaigns. The research techniques employed will involve consulting doctrinal sources of national and international relevance, as well as analyzing the Bill no. 429 of 2017. The research method to be used will be hypothetical-deductive, as it will address dogmatic concepts and guidelines established by the Bill. In light of numerous corruption and money laundering scandals, there is an increased social demand for clean and transparent electoral campaigns and better-prepared and structured political parties to address the risks of irregularities within the party and electoral context. With the Bill no. 429/2017 under consideration, the need for integrity programs in these areas will become mandatory. In order for such changes to be effective, it is essential to establish secure parameters and guidelines for whistleblowing channels and internal investigations, as these are the pillars that best facilitate the identification of integrity issues and legal and political malfeasance. Whistleblowing channels are characterized as both internal and external means of communication that aim to establish an anonymous and secure environment for reporting potential violations of the integrity program. Internal investigations, on the other hand, are procedures that aim to prevent and detect inappropriate conduct within the program, with the goal of immediate purging within the organization. Thus, we can conclude that whistleblowing channels primarily emphasize the elements of whistleblower anonymity and information confidentiality, serving as an effective means to report legal and statutory infractions and maintain order and integrity within the party structure and campaign organization. Internal investigations, in turn, serve as tools to verify the veracity of allegations and apply appropriate sanctions to ensure compliance with the integrity program within the party and electoral process. In this context, it is necessary to analyze how these pillars will be applied in the electoral routine and party structure, considering the different proportions and impacts of Brazilian politics.