Protection of Whistleblowers Against Discrimination Policy

1. Purpose

An-Najah National University (ANNU) is committed to upholding integrity, transparency, and fairness across all areas of its academic and administrative operations. This policy establishes the University’s commitment to protecting individuals who, in good faith, report incidents of discrimination, harassment, misconduct, or unfair treatment.
Its purpose is to ensure that whistleblowers are safeguarded from retaliation, disadvantage, or any negative consequences that may affect their educational or employment standing.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all members of the University community, including:

• Full-time and part-time employees

• Academic and administrative staff

• Students and researchers

• Contractors, subcontractors, and consultants

• Interns, volunteers, and visitors

It applies to all aspects of University life, including:

• Academic activities, teaching, and research

• Employment and recruitment processes

• Promotions, training, and professional development

• Access to services, programs, and opportunities

3. Guiding Principles

The implementation of this policy is based on the following principles:

• Integrity and Accountability: Upholding honesty, fairness, and responsibility in all reports and investigations.
• Respect and Dignity: Ensuring that every person is treated with respect, free from fear of reprisal or bias.
• Equality and Inclusion: Encouraging a diverse and inclusive environment where all members feel empowered to speak up.
• Confidentiality: Protecting the privacy of all individuals involved to the greatest extent possible.
• Transparency: Ensuring clarity and fairness in procedures, investigations, and outcomes.

4. Policy Statement

An-Najah National University strictly prohibits retaliation or any form of discrimination against individuals who report violations, unethical conduct, or discriminatory behavior.
Whistleblowers acting in good faith are protected from:

• Termination, suspension, or demotion;

• Harassment, intimidation, or exclusion;

• Denial of academic or employment opportunities;

• Any act causing educational, professional, or social disadvantage.

The University recognizes that protecting whistleblowers strengthens its culture of integrity and accountability.

5. Reporting and Complaints Procedure

Individuals who wish to report discrimination or misconduct may do so through one or more of the following channels:

1. Human Resources Department, for staff-related concerns.

2. Dean of Student Affairs, for student-related issues.

3. University Ethics and Integrity Committee – for confidential or cross-departmental matters.

4. Office of the University President – for sensitive or unresolved cases.

Reports can be submitted in person, via email, or through the secure online reporting system on the University’s official website. Anonymous submissions will be reviewed if adequate details are provided to support an investigation.

6. Investigation and Resolution

Upon receipt of a report:

1. The receiving office shall acknowledge the complaint within five (5) working days.

2. A fair, objective, and timely investigation shall be initiated.

3. Findings and recommendations will be submitted to the University President or designated authority.

4. Corrective measures will be applied when violations are confirmed, which may include disciplinary action, policy revision, or mediation.

All investigations will be conducted in a manner that maintains confidentiality and protects the rights of all parties.

7. Protection Against Retaliation

Retaliation in any form against individuals who report discrimination, participate in an investigation, or assist in enforcing this policy is strictly prohibited.
Confirmed acts of retaliation shall result in disciplinary measures, which may include termination of employment, expulsion, or other administrative sanctions.

8. False or Malicious Reporting

While the University encourages transparency and accountability, knowingly false or malicious reports are considered a breach of integrity and may lead to disciplinary action.

9. Training and Awareness

The University will organize regular training sessions for faculty, staff, and students to:

• Promote awareness of whistleblower protections;

• Encourage ethical reporting of misconduct;

• Reinforce the values of non-discrimination, fairness, and integrity.

10. Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Office of the University President, in coordination with the Human Resources Department and Legal Affairs Office, to ensure alignment with national laws and international best practices.

Effective Date: January 10, 2022
Review Date: June 19, 2025