Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Freedom of Information Acts (FOIAs) are laws that grant individuals the right to access government information and documents. They promote transparency and accountability by allowing citizens to request and receive public records.
Related terms
Whistleblower Protection: Whistleblower protection refers to legal measures that shield individuals who expose wrongdoing or illegal activities within organizations from retaliation.
Open Government: Open government is a concept that promotes transparency, citizen participation, and collaboration in governance. It aims to make government more accessible and accountable.
Right to Know: The right to know is a fundamental principle that recognizes individuals' entitlements to access information held by public authorities. It empowers citizens with knowledge about governmental actions and decisions.