Saudi Arabia Establishes Center to Protect Whistleblowers, Witnesses

Saudi Attorney General Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib (SPA)

Saudi Attorney General Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib gave the green light on Wednesday to set up a center for protecting whistleblowers, witnesses, experts, and victims.
This move comes in implementation of Article Four of the Law for the Protection of Whistleblowers, Witnesses, Experts, and Victims.
The law, which was approved by the Council of Ministers on Feb. 13, aims at providing security to individuals who may come under threat for giving evidence in court cases.
Article Four specifies establishing a special program within the Public Prosecution to safeguard whistleblowers, witnesses, experts, and victims. It details the program's structure, management, tasks, authorities, and funding.
Sheikh Al-Mujib sees this as a significant step in providing legal protection for those involved in legal proceedings. He emphasized that this protection covers all necessary measures to safeguard these individuals and their relatives from harm.
He believes implementing such measures will encourage a culture of reporting and strengthen national responsibility.
The center aims to provide various forms of protection outlined in Article 14 of the system, including security, data privacy, relocation assistance, legal and psychological support, and financial aid.
The Public Prosecution stated it works closely with regulatory, investigative, and judicial bodies for cases under the system’s provisions. This involves taking necessary steps like protecting the identities and addresses of whistleblowers, witnesses, experts, and victims in documents to ensure their safety.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Public Prosecution Spokesperson Mohannad Al-Majlid explained that this collaboration includes drafting regulations with relevant ministries and authorities.
Al-Majlid explained that the center will be based in Riyadh and emphasized that the protection system applies to everyone, whether they are citizens or residents, based on the jurisdiction of the authorities enforcing the system.
The center will take steps to ensure the physical safety, health, and social adjustment of those under protection. Their rights will be respected, with restrictions imposed only when necessary.
Individuals under protection can request help according to set procedures and conditions. The system also allows protection without consent if there's an immediate threat.
It imposes penalties, including up to three years in jail and fines up to SAR 5 million, for any actions that harm those under protection.