Reassessing the framework for the protection of civil servant whistleblowers in the European Court of human rights

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR or Court) has included civil servant whistleblowers in the protective ambit Article 10 Convention on Rights. article argues that should revisit its approach to proportionality such cases. When determining whether a restriction whistleblower's free speech was necessary democratic society, weighs what identifies as quasi-public watchdog function (namely their role imparting information matters public concern) against duties and responsibilities servants. In some instances, gives primacy whistleblowers’ loyalty government over contribution accountability bodies. challenges this basis it fails adequately consider key justification underpins Court's recognition whistleblowing speech, namely audience interest receiving whistleblower discloses. give whistleblowers. It concludes by making suggestions how ECtHR can adopt more principled