Raise a concern – FORUT’s whistleblowing channel

A high level of trust between FORUT and its partner organisations, and among the staff members, is conducive to uncovering any unacceptable behaviors.

FORUT’s model of equitable partnerships is our most important asset in this regard, because it contributes to an organisational culture where suspicion of irregularities or unacceptable behavior can be communicated without fear of unjust repercussions and that investigations can be carried out without anyone being afraid to tell the truth. 

FORUT’s whistleblowing channel serves as a communication channel to report, in good faith, anything you suspect, observe, experience, or become aware of what may be corrupt, unethical, unpleasant, discriminatory, harassing, illegal, or wasteful of resources. 

Where to raise a concern  

We encourage a concern to first be raised and discussed with line management as close to the activity as possible or the staff members responsible for handling these issues. 

If you believe that the concern you have raised has not been sufficiently handled locally, or if your safety is at risk, you may report this directly to us. Please tell us about anything you suspect, observe, experience, or become aware that may pose a risk or constitute wrongdoing or misconduct. By sharing concern with us, you are helping us prevent or remedy issues at an early stage and improve our work both in the countries where we operate and in Norway.  

For a concern to be processed through this channel, it must be within the scope of the work of FORUT.  

What can be reported  

The following circumstances can be reported in particular: 

  • corruption and financial irregularities of any kind  
  • all forms of exploitation and abuse, especially sexual exploitation, and harassment 

If the concern is not within the scope of FORUT, the complainant will be informed according to FORUT’s concern handling procedures. 

Issues not covered 

Internal employment matters, such as salary levels, performance evaluations, or job assignments, are not to be addressed through this whistleblowing system. Instead, these should be reported via local channels, such as your immediate supervisor, the focal point for handling such issues in the local organisation, government instances, or a union representative. We encourage any concern of this nature to be resolved at the lowest possible level. 

Partners’ whistleblowing mechanisms are tailored to meet contextual needs, including the ability to interact in local languages and address concerns in accordance with internal policies and national laws. 

It is essential to note that the whistleblowing system must not be used to make false accusations or submit misleading information. 

How to report to FORUT  

You can tell us about your concerns by using the FORUT concern form here.

All reports are received and managed by the Concern Unit at FORUT’s Head Office in Gjøvik.

The information you provide will be treated confidentially and will only be disclosed to authorized staff who handle your concern in accordance with internal procedures. Our whistleblower system is designed to ensure a secure way to report and follow up on your concern while promoting transparency, accountability, and safeguarding the whistleblowers’ rights. 

Providing your name and contact information will help us clarify matters, as it allows us to follow up on the case appropriately. Alternatively, you may choose to remain anonymous when reporting; however, this may limit our ability to respond effectively and provide updates on the case directly.   

A concern can also be communicated to the closest contact person at FORUT, who has a duty to inform the Concern Unit at FORUT handling concens. 

Please substantiate your concern as much as possible so that we can follow up on the case appropriately and in line with our policies. Once a report has been generated, you will receive updates on the progress and outcome of the investigation. 

After you have handed in your concern, you can expect to receive a message of confirmation within five days. In the confirmation there will be a description of how your case will be handled according to FORUT internal procedures to ensure transparency of the process.

You must give your consent to us to share the information with the parties involved in handling your concern. You may also be asked for more information on the case.   
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