GermanyThe article discusses Germany’s coalition government’s plans to significantly restrict the right to information under the Federal Information Act (IFG). Currently, citizens, civil society organizations, and media can request state documents, ensuring transparency and uncovering scandals. However, the current ruling coalition—composed of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Christian Social Union (CSU), and Social Democrats (SPD)—intends to weaken this right by requiring applicants to demonstrate 'legitimate interest' before making requests. This would exclude many individuals and groups from accessing information. The proposed changes include removing cost caps, allowing higher fees, restricting requests to natural persons, and excluding non-German citizens. Additionally, names of public officials would be redacted, hindering accountability. Civil society groups like FragDenStaat and organizations such as the German Environmental Agency (Deutsche Umwelthilfe) have expressed strong opposition to these measures.
Bias read (Left): The article frames the coalition’s proposals as an attack on transparency and democratic principles, using terms like 'Frontalangriff' (frontal assault) and highlighting the potential impact on accountability and corruption prevention. It emphasizes the threat to civil society and journalistic work,
