Act on Access to Information Held by Administrative Organs (2001)

Definition

The Act on Access to Information Held by Administrative Organs, enacted in 2001, establishes the legal framework for public access to information held by Japanese administrative bodies. This law aims to enhance transparency and accountability in government operations, thereby fostering the principles of democracy and promoting freedom of expression and press by allowing citizens and media to access vital information necessary for informed public discourse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Act was a landmark piece of legislation that marked a significant shift toward greater governmental transparency in Japan.
2. It allows individuals to request information from administrative organs, which must respond in a timely manner, usually within 30 days.
3. Certain exceptions exist where information may be withheld, particularly if its disclosure could compromise national security or personal privacy.
4. The act has been crucial in enabling civil society organizations and journalists to hold the government accountable by accessing information relevant to public interests.
5. Since its implementation, there has been a growing awareness and practice among citizens regarding their right to access governmental information.

Review Questions

• How does the Act on Access to Information Held by Administrative Organs enhance the role of freedom of expression in Japan?
  • The Act directly enhances freedom of expression by providing legal means for individuals and media organizations to access government-held information. By ensuring that citizens can obtain critical data about governmental actions and policies, the Act empowers them to engage more fully in public discourse. This transparency fosters a more informed citizenry, enabling people to express opinions, challenge government decisions, and participate actively in democratic processes.
• Discuss how the exceptions outlined in the Act impact the balance between government transparency and national security.
  • While the Act promotes transparency, it also includes specific exceptions that allow for withholding information when disclosure could jeopardize national security or privacy rights. This creates a complex balance where the need for an open government must be weighed against the potential risks associated with releasing sensitive information. The challenge lies in ensuring that these exceptions are not misused to suppress legitimate requests for information that could serve public interest and accountability.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Act on Access to Information Held by Administrative Organs since its enactment in 2001, considering its impact on governance and citizen engagement.
  • Since its enactment in 2001, the Act on Access to Information Held by Administrative Organs has significantly improved governmental transparency and fostered greater citizen engagement. It has empowered individuals to demand accountability from their government through accessible information channels. However, its effectiveness is sometimes undermined by bureaucratic challenges, resistance from certain administrative bodies, and varying levels of awareness among citizens about their rights under the Act. Overall, while it has made strides toward enhancing democratic processes, continuous efforts are needed to ensure full compliance and broader public understanding.

Related terms

Transparency: The principle that government actions should be open and clear to the public, allowing for scrutiny and accountability.

Right to Know: The legal right of individuals to access information held by public authorities, emphasizing the importance of informed citizen participation in governance.

Public Interest Test: A criterion used to determine whether information should be disclosed based on its significance to the public welfare and democracy.