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Public-sector organisations are named in section 10 of Act 1171/2022 alongside companies. This guide collects the points that tend to raise questions in municipalities, wellbeing services counties and parishes. It is general information, not legal advice.

Who is covered

Section 10 lists wellbeing services counties, municipalities and parishes among the organisations that must establish an internal channel when they regularly have at least 50 persons in an employment or public-service relationship. Public-service relationships (virkasuhde) count towards the figure.

Impartial handling

Section 14 requires impartial designated persons, and only they may process reports. In a public organisation that usually means handlers outside the line management of the units most likely to be reported on, plus deputies for conflicts of interest and absences. Write down who handles what before the first report arrives.

Information residents and staff can find

Section 15 requires clear information on internal reporting, on the Chancellor of Justice’s centralised external channel, on the procedures and on the conditions of protection. Publish it where staff actually look (intranet, induction material) and on the public website for others the Act protects, such as contractors and job applicants (section 5).

Anonymity, confidentiality and records

• Section 17: the organisation decides whether to accept anonymous reports. Decide it explicitly and say so in the published information.
• Section 32: the reporter’s identity and the report are confidential. Check with counsel how this fits your document-management and publicity practices.
• Section 29: report data is erased five years after receipt unless further retention is necessary for statutory rights or obligations or legal claims.

Shared channels

Section 12 allows a shared channel in certain situations. If you are considering one with other organisations, check its conditions in the Act and agree in writing who is responsible for each duty.

Not sure whether the duty applies? Take the self-check.