The National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information and Personal Data Protection (INAI) ordered the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) to provide disaggregated data on medical care for victims of sexual crimes, overturning the health institution’s initial refusal. This ruling underscores that transparency of information is essential for citizens to actively participate in the design of public policies and defend their human rights. Without complete and reliable data, it is impossible to evaluate the effectiveness of the State’s actions in addressing sexual violence. The significance of this case lies in its gender perspective and the need for accurate statistics to combat a growing problem. By ensuring access to information disaggregated by sex and age, it facilitates the construction of solid evidence that enables the development of more effective strategies. This reaffirms the social value of access to information, as only through transparency can gaps in care be identified and ensured that victims receive appropriate medical services. This article is relevant to the field of open data because it demonstrates how citizen requests can expose deficiencies in institutional information management. The case illustrates the need for institutions not only to publish data but also to keep it updated, complete, and accessible. The ability of civil society to audit and demand this data openness is crucial for promoting accountability and improving the quality of public services based on real evidence.
Source:Published on 2024-02-06