Saudi Arabia Launches Center to Protect Whistleblowers and Witnesses
In a bold move, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a groundbreaking center dedicated to safeguarding whistleblowers and witnesses to crimes, set to kick off operations in July.
Legal Protection and Support
Attorney General Sheikh Saud Al-Mojeb gave the green light for the establishment of the center in compliance with Article Four of the Law for the Protection of Whistleblowers, Witnesses, Experts, and Victims.
The center will offer legal protection from threats, danger, or harm utilizing methods outlined in Article Fourteen of the Law. This includes security measures, as well as identity and data anonymization.
Victims may be relocated from their workplace, either temporarily or permanently, and given alternative employment options. Furthermore, they will receive legal, psychological, and social guidance.
Additional provisions for security escorts and financial aid are also part of the protection package.
Assistance for Witnesses and Whistleblowers
Witnesses and whistleblowers are eligible to submit protection requests under specific conditions. The center can provide assistance without requiring a formal request in cases of imminent danger.
Those who harm witnesses under protection face severe consequences, including up to three years in prison and fines of up to SR5 million ($1.3 million).
International Commitments
Saudi Arabia, a signatory of the UN organized crime convention since 2005, has domestic laws mandating protective measures for crime victims and witnesses, according to accredited lawyer Tariq Al-Suqair.
The Kingdom’s latest initiatives align with Article 24 of the convention, emphasizing effective protection for witnesses against retaliation or intimidation.
Future Outlook
Saudi Arabia’s Public Prosecution has proposed an executive body to oversee the center and its witness protection program.
Al-Suqair anticipates that the implementation of this program will lead to more robust measures to combat sophisticated organized crimes in the country.