#IFJBlog: Is the Freedom of Information Request a Useful Journalistic Tool? / IFJ

The article highlights a significant disconnect between official government statistics claiming high rates of information disclosure and the lived experiences of journalists who frequently fail to obtain requested data. This discrepancy suggests that institutional metrics may mask the reality of administrative resistance, indicating that while data exists on paper, the practical accessibility of public records remains a major hurdle for transparency advocates and investigators alike. The core challenge lies in the nature of investigative journalism, which often targets information that institutions actively wish to conceal. Because public bodies rarely volunteer sensitive or controversial data, standard immediate requests are often denied or delayed. The author argues that this friction is not necessarily a reflection of systemic secrecy alone, but rather a result of the inherent conflict between those seeking accountability and those protecting institutional privacy, making the acquisition of non-routine data an adversarial process. The ultimate conclusion emphasizes that persistence and patience are critical for successful open data acquisition. By understanding that non-disclosure is often a temporary tactic rather than a permanent barrier, applicants can leverage appeals and administrative reviews to eventually secure access to withheld information. This relevance to open data lies in its demonstration that legal frameworks for transparency require sustained strategic engagement, proving that data is rarely permanently hidden if one is willing to navigate the lengthy bureaucratic and legal avenues available.

Source: ifj.org
Published on 2026-09-29

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