Disclosing

Disclosing is the act of making information known to others. It can be voluntary, as when a person shares information about themselves, or compelled, as by law, contract, or professional duty. The opposite is nondisclosure, or keeping information private. Disclosure ranges from everyday personal sharing to formal disclosures in business, medicine, and government.

In law and ethics, disclosure is guided by principles of transparency and accountability, but it is also constrained by privacy, confidentiality, and safety considerations. Many regimes require the disclosure of material information to specific audiences; for example, securities laws require companies to disclose financial results, risks, and related-party transactions to shareholders and regulators. Courts may compel disclosure in litigation, and professional privileges can limit what must be disclosed.

In healthcare and research, disclosure relates to informed consent. Providers disclose diagnoses, prognosis, treatment options, risks, and alternatives to patients or participants, respecting autonomy and the right to withdraw. Confidential information may be disclosed to caregivers or family with consent or under statutory exceptions.

In data protection and privacy, organizations disclose personal data only with lawful basis, for purposes stated, and subject to restrictions on access and retention. Individuals typically have rights to access, rectify, or request restriction on disclosure of their data.

Ethical and practical challenges include preventing selective or misleading disclosure, blocking compelled disclosures that could harm privacy, and avoiding breaches of confidentiality. The term thus covers a broad set of situations, all centered on the communication of information from one party to another.