denouncer

A denouncer is a person who publicly condemns or reports suspected wrongdoing or violations of law, often to authorities, organizations, or the public. A denouncer may act through formal channels such as complaints to a government agency, or through public statements, media reports, or social media posts that accuse individuals or institutions of misconduct.

The word derives from the verb denounce, from the French dénoncer, meaning to condemn or accuse publicly.

Historically, denouncers have been associated with denunciation networks in various regimes, where private citizens informed on others to authorities. In contemporary contexts, denouncers may be journalists, whistleblowers, activists, or ordinary citizens who expose wrongdoing. The term can carry neutral or negative connotations depending on context and perspective, and some jurisdictions provide legal protections for legitimate whistleblowing while condemning unfounded or malicious accusations.

See also: denunciation, whistleblower, informer, snitch, informant.