Whose Freedom? Whose Information?: Discourses on Freedom of Information Policies

Abstract

Information policymaking in the contemporary global environment is complex and can be a difficult process. The difficulty lies, partly, in the divergent priorities of the state and civil society organizations (CSOs) and their transnational allies that often push specific laws in the global south. This article uses an analysis of the discourse around Freedom of Information (FOI) policies in Ghana and Nigeria to show how such divergent priorities emerge and their impact on the policymaking process. Specifically, it shows the limitations of key assumptions underlying advocacy for FOI and how the hegemony of the state is ultimately preserved.