HinSchG Foundations: Whistleblower Protection in Germany
This course introduces all staff in Germany to the Hinweisgeberschutzgesetz (HinSchG), explaining who is protected, how to report concerns safely, and what protections apply when speaking up about wrongdoing.
The Hinweisgeberschutzgesetz (HinSchG), which came into force in Germany on 2 July 2023, establishes comprehensive legal protections for individuals who report breaches of law in professional contexts. This course provides all staff with a clear understanding of the Act's key provisions, including who qualifies as a whistleblower, what types of violations may be reported, and which internal and external reporting channels are available to them.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities under the HinSchG is essential for every member of staff, regardless of role or seniority. The Act prohibits retaliation against those who make reports in good faith and places obligations on organisations to maintain confidential, accessible reporting systems. This course will walk you through those protections and explain what you can expect when you raise a concern.
As part of a two-course set for Germany, this course is designed for all staff and focuses on practical awareness and individual rights. A separate course is available for compliance officers, managers, and those responsible for operating internal reporting systems. By completing this course, you will be equipped to recognise reportable conduct, understand your protection under the law, and feel confident using the reporting channels available to you.
Course content
1. Module 1: Introduction to the HinSchG
- What Is the HinSchG and Why Does It Matter?
- Key Definitions: Who Is a Whistleblower Under the HinSchG?
2. Module 2: What Can Be Reported?
- The Scope of Reportable Violations
3. Module 3: Reporting Channels
- Internal Reporting Channels
- External Reporting Channels and Public Disclosure
4. Module 4: Protections Against Retaliation
- What Is Retaliation and How Does the HinSchG Prohibit It?
- Your Obligations and Responsibilities as a Staff Member
5. Module 5: Making a Report — Practical Steps
- How to Make a Report Effectively
6. Module 6: Organisational Obligations and Your Rights
- What Your Organisation Must Do Under the HinSchG
7. Final Assessment
- Final Assessment
- 10 lessons
- Pass mark: 80%
- Completion certificate
You'll need a learner account to enrol.
Pay for 2–500 seats in one purchase. You'll receive an access code to share with your team.
Total: $495.00 + GST
Completion requirements
- Lessons and modules must be completed in order — each unlocks when the previous one is finished.
- Quizzes must be passed (pass mark 80%).
- Your certificate is issued automatically when every lesson is complete.
Unlock this course for free with a code from your organisation.