Learn about what freedom of information in Hong Kong means for you and how you can go about filing a request through our comprehensive “Access To Information Manual”. Additionally, we provide guidance on navigating follow-ups and refusals.
Freedom of information is the right to access official government records, which allows for greater accountability and transparency of public bodies.
Freedom of information is usually enshrined in legislation. The Freedom of Information Act was passed in the United Kingdom in 2000.1 It has helped people expose wrongful imprisonment scandals2 and illegal public spending by Members of Parliament3. In mainland China, freedom of information legislation was available in 30 provinces and municipalities before being implemented on the state level.4
Hong Kong does not have legislation providing the right to access information, but it does have an administrative framework. The Code on Access to Information was introduced in 1995 and covers all government departments.
To learn how to request information from the Hong Kong government through accessinfo.hk, read our guide online or download a PDF version of the guide here.
The Code on Access to Information (“the Code”) allows you to request information regarding government departments in Hong Kong SAR through post, email, or via an application form.
Written by
CivicSight
Published on
24 May 2024
