Can a Whistleblower Initiate an Investigation? Exploring the Role of External Sources

A whistleblower plays a critical role in detecting and reporting misconduct, which can often lead to significant investigations. However, the question arises as to whether a whistleblower can independently initiate an investigation or if such an inquiry must originate from a government entity. This article delves into the complexities of the situation, providing insights and examples, including the case of Edward Snowden.

Who is a Whistleblower?

A whistleblower is an individual who exposes misconduct, illegal activities, or a serious threat to public interest, especially within a company or governmental organization. The term comes from the concept of a 'whistleblower' in sports, where the purpose is to signal any illegal or unfair behavior to the authorities involved.

The Role of Government in Investigations

Traditionally, investigations into misconduct and illegal activities are typically initiated and carried out by government agencies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) or relevant regulatory bodies. These organizations have the legal authority, resources, and expertise to conduct thorough and thoroughgoing investigations. They are equipped with the necessary tools, such as subpoena powers, to compel witnesses and obtain evidence.

The Case of Edward Snowden

The case of Edward Snowden serves as a glaring example of how a whistleblower can significantly impact the initiation of an investigation. Snowden, an American computer professional, former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) employee, and contractor for the National Security Agency (NSA), leaked classified information about mass surveillance programs operated by the U.S. government to the media and the public.

Initially, Snowden approached several government officials within the U.S. department of intelligence, including his own superiors, with his concerns about the surveillance programs. However, these attempts to bring the matter to the attention of the government were unsuccessful. Driven by a strong sense of public duty, Snowden eventually contacted several journalists, most notably Glenn Greenwald, Laura Poitras, and Ewen MacAskill, who were then able to publish the leaked documents and bring the issue to the public and governmental attention.

External Sources and the Public Interest

While government entities play a crucial role in the investigation and enforcement of laws, the involvement of external sources, such as journalists and the public, can be instrumental in bringing attention to issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. In Snowden's case, the media played a vital role in disseminating the information to the public, thereby pressuring government authorities to launch their own investigations.

The involvement of external sources can lead to:

Greater public awareness and engagement in the issue Enhanced pressure on government bodies to act Potential for legal or regulatory action

The Challenges and Ethical Considerations

While external sources can initiate investigations, there are several challenges and ethical considerations associated with this approach:

Legality and Professional Responsibility

Finding a balance between a whistleblower's ethical responsibility to expose wrongdoing and the legal implications of leaking classified information can be extremely challenging. Government entities have legal processes in place to handle such information, whereas individuals may face severe legal consequences for unauthorized disclosure.

Public Safety and National Security

The leaking of sensitive information, such as classified intelligence, can impact national security and public safety. Therefore, external sources must carefully consider the potential risks and consequences before deciding to publish such information.

Ethical Dilemmas and Pressures

Journalists and other external sources may face ethical dilemmas in handling and reporting sensitive information. They must ensure the information is accurate, complete, and properly vetted before publishing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while government entities have a primary role in initiating and conducting investigations into misconduct and illegal activities, the involvement of external sources can be crucial in bringing issues to public attention and pressuring authorities to act. The case of Edward Snowden demonstrated how a whistleblower can leverage the resources and reach of external sources to expose significant issues, ultimately leading to investigations by government entities. Balancing the roles of these different stakeholders requires careful consideration of the ethical, legal, and practical implications.

Keywords: Anonymous, whistleblower, investigation, government entity, Edward Snowden, intelligence, surveillance, media, public interest, government agencies, legal authority, public awareness, national security