Offentlighetsloven

Offentlighetsloven, or the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act, is a law that regulates public access to documents and information held by public authorities in Norway. Its aim is to promote transparency and accountability in government and public administration.

The act applies to central and local government, government agencies, courts, and state-owned enterprises. It covers documents created or received in the course of official business, including written, electronic, and other record types. The law supports openness in decision-making and administrative processes, and in some cases requires proactive disclosure of information.

Access rights are available to any person, regardless of citizenship or residence. Requests can be made orally or in writing, and authorities must respond within a defined deadline with a decision or a reason for delay. Documents may be disclosed in full or released with redactions when necessary to protect other interests.

Several exemptions limit disclosure. Information may be withheld to safeguard national security, defence, international relations, public safety, and ongoing investigations. Personal data and privacy concerns are protected, as are confidential information and trade secrets provided by third parties. Internal deliberations and other material that could impair decision-making may also be restricted, although partial disclosure is often possible through redaction.

If access is denied or information is partially withheld, the decision can be appealed within the public authority and, if needed, to supervisory bodies or the courts. The act also interacts with privacy laws and archival requirements and encourages proactive transparency by publishing certain categories of information without a formal request.

In summary, Offentlighetsloven seeks to balance openness in government with legitimate confidentiality concerns, contributing to democratic accountability in Norway.