What does the term "whistleblower" refer to?

The term "whistleblower" specifically refers to an employee who reports unlawful practices or misconduct by their employer. This can include various illegal activities such as fraud, corruption, discrimination, or safety violations that jeopardize employee well-being or the integrity of the organization.

Whistleblowers play a crucial role in organizational accountability and transparency, often risking their career and retaliation while bringing important issues to light. Their actions typically lead to investigations and potential reforms within the organization, making their role vital in maintaining ethical standards.

The other options, while they refer to different forms of employee advocacy or involvement, do not capture the broader legal implications and protective measures associated with whistleblowing. For instance, an employee highlighting workplace safety issues may not necessarily be reporting illegal practices. Similarly, advocating for new policies or working under a union does not equate to whistleblowing, which is primarily centered around exposing wrongdoing.