State capture commission chair judge Raymond Zondo believes half the evidence that has helped the commission’s work has come from whistle-blowers. Without whistle-blowers speaking up about the malfeasance and transgressions they’ve seen, the commission — and SA’s efforts to seek justice — would have been severely hampered.

But while whistle-blowers play a vital role in our society, it is surprising — shocking even — to learn that they receive virtually no formal support or protection from the state or any other organisation. They speak up at great personal risk and cost to themselves...