Amidst the ongoing debate regarding whistleblowers, a new documentary explores the personal fate and battles of those who choose to challenge the system.From Rudolf Elmer’s thriller-like life following his whistleblowing at Swiss banks, to Stéphanie Gibaud’s firing at UBS after facing immense pressure, Whistleblowers: Heroes or Traitors delves into the consequences and motivations of such individuals. While authorities may label them traitors, they are considered heroes by many, and without them, the world would be a far more naive place.
But what drives whistleblowers to risk everything, from their careers to their personal safety? The documentary sheds light on their anger, disbelief and powerlessness, and the moment when they decide to obey their conscience, regardless of the consequences. Through revelations of tax evasion, data abuse, and war crimes, billions in revenue has been recovered, and corruption exposed. Yet, at the same time, old allies turn into enemies and whistleblowers are forced to pay a hefty price. Can these heroes of the public ever return to their normal lives, or are they forever marked by their courageous decision to blow the whistle?
