SPRICH’S AN: NADA Germany revises whistleblower system

The National Anti Doping Agency of Germany (NADA Germany) has revised and strategically realigned its whistleblower system SPRICH'S AN (SPEAK UP). The aim is to make it easier for whistleblowers to submit information to NADA Germany and to increase brand recognition. SPRICH'S AN allows information to be submitted anonymously to report irregularities in sport or possible doping.

The SPRICH'S AN whistleblower system has been adapted so that the user interface and design make it easier to submit reports. Reports can now be submitted via the new EQS Integrity Line® whistleblower system. The system fully protects the anonymity of whistleblowers and complies with the requirements of the German Whistleblower Protection Act. In addition to anonymous reporting, whistleblowers can also remain in anonymous contact with NADA Germany afterwards to clarify queries or provide further information. The system is internationally established and is used by numerous national anti-doping organisations for intelligence and investigation work.

In addition, communication measures have been expanded to further anchor the whistleblower system in the sporting world and emphasise its importance for clean sport. A newly redesigned website helps to better inform whistleblowers about the whistleblower system and encourages them to report suspicious behaviour to NADA Germany. Particular emphasis has been placed on educating whistleblowers and strengthening their trust in the system. In addition, the system is being promoted more intensively via social media and notices at sports clubs and events aimed directly at potential whistleblowers. 

The strategic and communicative reorientation of the whistleblower system is based on current scientific research on whistleblowing and increasingly addresses the needs of anonymous whistleblowers.

"We are aware that it takes courage to contact NADA Germany and report information. That is why protecting whistleblowers is our top priority. All reports are treated as strictly confidential," says Dr Lars Mortsiefer, Chairman of the NADA Germany Executive Board.

For ten years now, SPRICH'S AN has been enabling anonymous reports to be made that play a decisive role in uncovering doping-related behaviour. NADA Germany's intelligence and investigation work makes an important contribution to clean sport. It involves networking and exchanging information with partners in order to investigate possible violations of anti-doping regulations. In addition to SPRICH'S AN, this includes a global network of experts and close cooperation with government investigative authorities at national and international level.