Panama is advancing its open data framework by modernizing its Transparency and Access to Information Law to align with international standards. This legislative update, developed through consensus with civil society and UNESCO, shifts the legal paradigm toward maximum disclosure. Consequently, public entities must ensure that information is complete, timely, and accessible, significantly strengthening the country’s commitment to government transparency and accountability. The proposed reforms drastically improve operational efficiency by halving the response time for information requests to fifteen days. Furthermore, the legislation expands the definition of obligated subjects to include any individual or entity receiving state funds, thereby closing previous loopholes. By allowing diverse submission methods, including digital platforms, the law facilitates easier public engagement and ensures broader societal access to public records. This initiative is highly relevant to open data because it establishes a robust legal infrastructure for data publication. By adopting the Ibero-American Model 2.0, Panama prioritizes proactive disclosure and technological modernization. These changes not only harmonize national regulations with global best practices but also empower citizens by making government data more readily available for scrutiny and innovation, essential components of a healthy open data ecosystem.
Source:Published on 2023-04-20