In a decisive move to fortify legal safeguards, Saudi Arabia has greenlit the creation of the Center for the Protection of Whistleblowers, Witnesses, Experts, and Victims. Spearheaded by Saudi Attorney General Sheikh Saud Al-Muajab, this initiative finds its roots in Article Four of the groundbreaking Law for the Protection of Whistleblowers, Witnesses, Experts, and Victims.
Enacted by the Council of Ministers on February 13, the law stands as a bastion against intimidation and reprisal for those who dare to step forward with crucial testimony. At its core, the law endeavors to furnish a sanctuary for individuals imperiled by their disclosures in legal proceedings.
Central to the center’s mission is the provision of comprehensive legal fortification for those exposed to risks due to their role in divulging information on criminal activities. The law pledges a spectrum of protections, ranging from anonymity safeguards to relocation assistance, underscoring a commitment to shield these courageous individuals from harm’s reach.
Emphasizing proactive measures, the center is poised to proactively safeguard the physical and emotional well-being of those entitled to its shield. By tailoring protection strategies to individual needs while upholding their rights and freedoms, the center seeks to mitigate risks without unduly curbing personal liberties.
Operating within a framework of defined procedures and conditions, the law ensures accessibility to protection mechanisms for eligible individuals. Moreover, it empowers judicial authorities to enforce punitive measures against any threat or harm directed at witnesses, whistleblowers, and their families.
Beyond its immediate objectives, the law’s ripple effects are poised to reverberate in the realm of crime prevention. By fostering a culture of cooperation and confidence, it lays the groundwork for enhanced information sharing while deterring reprisals that could impede justice.
Notably, the law’s enforcement is slated to commence 120 days following its publication in the Official Umm Al-Qura Gazette on March 1, 2024. In this epoch of legal evolution, Saudi Arabia stands at the vanguard, carving a path toward a more secure and just society.
