What is the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?

The purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is to provide the public with the right to request access to records from any federal agency. This act embodies the principle of transparency in government, enabling citizens to obtain information about government activities and decisions that may affect them. By allowing individuals to access documents and records, FOIA promotes accountability and ensures that citizens can participate in the democratic process informed by the workings of their government.

FOIA is crucial in a democratic society as it supports informed public discourse and citizen engagement by enabling scrutiny of government actions. Public access to records fosters trust and openness, which are cornerstones of effective governance.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of government operations—such as security, confidentiality, and whistleblower protection—rather than the direct access to information that FOIA is designed to ensure.