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Journalists in Benin are being trained to utilize the Freedom of Information Act for holding government accountable, particularly as they prepare for the 2024 governorship election. This initiative emphasizes that responsible reportage within legal boundaries is crucial for maintaining democratic integrity and avoiding the spread of misinformation during this critical political period. The training addresses persistent difficulties journalists face in accessing government data, despite subnational governments' stated commitment to open governance principles. By equipping journalists with FOIA skills, the program aims to bridge the gap between citizen participation and actual information access, ensuring that public infrastructure and security issues are scrutinized effectively by the media. This article is relevant to open data because it highlights the practical application of transparency laws by media professionals to demand public accountability. It underscores the necessity of accessible data structures and legal frameworks that empower journalists to investigate government performance, thereby fostering an environment where open data serves as a tool for democratic oversight and informed civic engagement.

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Published on 2023-11-05

Open Data

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