Whistleblowers across the European Union have won greater protection under landmark legislation aimed at encouraging reports of wrongdoing.

The new law, approved by the European Parliament on Tuesday, shields whistleblowers from retaliation.

It also creates “safe channels” to allow them to report breaches of EU law.

It is the first time whistleblowers have been given EU-wide protection.

The rules have previously been in the hands of member states, resulting in a range of vastly different approaches.

The law was approved by 591 votes, with 29 votes against and 33 abstentions.