A proposal by Germany’s coalition government to overhaul the country’s Freedom of Information Act has sparked sharp criticism from journalists, legal experts and civil society organisations, who argue that the planned reforms could significantly weaken public access to government records.
The proposed changes, introduced by the Federal Interior Ministry under Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and backed by Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration, would substantially alter legislation that has been in force since 2006.
The current law allows anyone to request federal government documents without explaining why they need the information.
If approved, the new rules would replace that broad right with stricter requirements. Individuals seeking official records would first have to demonstrate a “legitimate interest” before their requests are considered.
The draft also proposes limiting applications to natural persons, a move that would prevent organisations such as non-governmental groups, investigative media outlets and advocacy bodies from requesting information in their institutional capacity.
The government is also reviewing proposals that could restrict eligibility to German citizens and European Union residents living in Germany. Critics say such a move would exclude foreign residents and international journalists from accessing public records.
The proposals have triggered widespread opposition across the country. More than 110 civil society organisations and media groups have jointly opposed the reforms, warning that the measures would erode transparency and reduce public oversight of government activities.
Among those raising concerns are Transparency International Germany, the German Journalists’ Association (DJV) and transparency platform FragDenStaat. In a joint open letter, the organisations argued that the planned restrictions would make it more difficult to uncover wrongdoing within public institutions.
The debate has intensified as critics argue that access to government information remains a key pillar of democratic accountability.
They warn that limiting who can request official records and under what conditions could reduce public scrutiny of government decisions.
As discussions over the proposed legislation continue, the outcome is expected to shape the future of transparency in Germany.
Supporters of open government say the decision will determine whether citizens, journalists and oversight organisations can continue holding public institutions accountable or face greater barriers in accessing information that serves the public interest.
