From 26 June 2025, the UK government is enhancing its sanctions enforcement framework by introducing new protections for whistleblowers and streamlining the process for reporting breaches.

The Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI) has launched a new reporting service to make it easier for individuals to report suspected breaches of trade sanctions. This is a significant step in bolstering the UK’s sanctions regime, particularly in light of increasing global scrutiny and enforcement expectations.

In parallel, the government is amending the Employment Rights Act 1996 (ERA) to extend whistleblower protections to those who report breaches of financial, trade, or transport sanctions. This means that individuals who make qualifying disclosures to the government will be protected from retaliation by their employers.

However, it’s important to note that whistleblower protection is not automatic. To be protected under the ERA, a disclosure must meet the criteria set out in Part IVA of the Act. So even when it comes to reporting breaches, sanctions professionals still need to do their due diligence!

Meanwhile, the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) is expected to modernise its own breach reporting system, moving away from its current paper-based process – though no firm timeline has been announced. These developments mark a positive shift in the UK’s approach to sanctions enforcement, encouraging transparency while offering greater protection to those who speak up.