This investigative report examines the problem of the absence of an effective law guaranteeing the right to access information in Palestine, and its impact on the work of journalists and the role of journalism in oversight and public accountability.
The report, prepared by journalist Fares Al-Malki and published by Mada News, highlights the experiences of investigative journalists who faced delays, administrative silence, and a lack of official responses when attempting to access information related to public issues. It also presents the opinions of legal experts, human rights advocates, and specialists in transparency and media freedom.
The report further discusses the absence of a clear legal framework regulating the right to access information, contrasted with the existence of vague legal texts that can be used to restrict publication or create a cautious environment for journalists. This, in turn, affects the ability of the media and civil society organizations to fulfill their oversight role.
The investigation also examines the impact of a lack of transparency on society and various issues, such as the economy, health, education, and investment, given the difficulty of accessing accurate and organized official data. It also draws comparisons with existing legal frameworks in other countries.
This work highlights the importance of investigative and in-depth journalism as a tool for understanding public policies and promoting accountability, transparency, and the right to information. It also sheds light on the daily challenges faced by journalists in their efforts to access information.
This investigation is part of the “Strengthening Independent Journalism and Media Networking in Palestine” initiative, launched by the Palestine Journalism Hub with support from the European Endowment for Democracy. The initiative aims to empower journalists to produce high-quality, professional content, enhance cooperation with local media institutions, expand publication reach, and reach wider audiences. It also supports co-publishing and the building of effective media networks that strengthen the presence and effectiveness of independent journalism in Palestinian society.