SCENARIO
Elena works in the procurement department of a regional public institution responsible for infrastructure projects funded partly through EU funds.
Over several months, Elena notices irregular procurement patterns involving:
- repeated contract awards to the same supplier,
- inconsistencies in evaluation procedures,
- and missing supporting documentation in several procurement files.
After reviewing internal records, Elena becomes concerned that:
- procurement procedures may have been manipulated,
- favoritism or corruption may exist,
- and senior management may be aware of the situation.
Elena submits a confidential internal report through the organization’s whistleblowing channel.
In her report, Elena requests:
- protection against retaliation,
- and confirmation that the matter will be investigated independently.
Two days later:
- rumors begin circulating within the department,
- Elena notices colleagues becoming distant,
- and her direct manager excludes her from an important procurement meeting.
You are responsible for handling the report.
