Governments’ Uses and Misuses of Freedom of Information Laws in Emerging European Democracies

Abstract

This study tests the normative assumptions on the empowerment effects of freedom of information (FOI) legislation on the press–government relationship in the context of new democracies. In-depth interviews with journalists in Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro imply that FOI laws can facilitate access to some previously unavailable official information. But, contrary to expectations, FOI laws are proving counterproductive for journalists who report stories beyond the official storyline, as government relies on this tool to control information access and the news agenda. The implication of these results for media freedom, agenda-building theory, and future transparency initiatives is discussed.