This study examines the influence of ethical leadership, supportive human resources (HR), and ombudsman services in encouraging employees to report unethical behavior within organizations. Much of the existing research on whistleblowing has focused on individualistic cultures, often overlooking the dynamics of collectivist cultures, where group well-being takes precedence over individual interests. This gap is particularly relevant in Saudi Arabia, where cultural norms may influence employees’ willingness to report unethical behavior. Additionally, while HR functions are recognized for fostering an ethical organizational culture, their direct effect on employee reporting behavior remains underexplored. This research also examines the role of internal ombudsmen, who provide an independent, neutral, and confidential space for employees to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. Findings from the literature confirm that ethical leadership significantly influences employees’ willingness to report unethical behavior. Leaders who exhibit trustworthiness, fairness, and ethical behavior play a crucial role in shaping organizational integrity. By exploring the influence of ethical leadership, as mediated through HR support and moderated by the ombudsman, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how cultural and structural factors shape ethical reporting practices within collectivist organizational cultures.

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Encouraging Whistleblowing: The Interplay of Ethical Leadership, HR Support, and Ombudsman Services

  • Abdullah Jaafar T. Alherz,
  • Noor Ul Hadi

摘要

This study examines the influence of ethical leadership, supportive human resources (HR), and ombudsman services in encouraging employees to report unethical behavior within organizations. Much of the existing research on whistleblowing has focused on individualistic cultures, often overlooking the dynamics of collectivist cultures, where group well-being takes precedence over individual interests. This gap is particularly relevant in Saudi Arabia, where cultural norms may influence employees’ willingness to report unethical behavior. Additionally, while HR functions are recognized for fostering an ethical organizational culture, their direct effect on employee reporting behavior remains underexplored. This research also examines the role of internal ombudsmen, who provide an independent, neutral, and confidential space for employees to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. Findings from the literature confirm that ethical leadership significantly influences employees’ willingness to report unethical behavior. Leaders who exhibit trustworthiness, fairness, and ethical behavior play a crucial role in shaping organizational integrity. By exploring the influence of ethical leadership, as mediated through HR support and moderated by the ombudsman, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how cultural and structural factors shape ethical reporting practices within collectivist organizational cultures.