How could an FOI Network support Freedom of Information delivery and practice?
The FOI Network is currently an informal coalition of civil society organisations, journalists, and academics interested in freedom of information in the UK. Those involved include requesters and those with a wider interest in policy around FOI and government ethics and transparency.
As part of a JRRT-funded project, we are exploring ways the FOI Network might expand and which activities would be most helpful to develop further.
This workshop will explore the difficulties faced by FOI practitioners and regulators when handling and delivering FOI, such as increasing request volumes, the rise of AI-generated requests, resource constraints, and the growing complexity of managing appeals and complaints.
From there, we will explore possible Network, or other, activities, that could help with some of these challenges, provide support, and ultimately lead to better FOI delivery.
Workshop findings will help shape future FOI Network activities, with the aim of developing ideas into pilot projects and initiatives that could be supported and funded to strengthen transparency and accountability in the UK.
Come along if you’re:
An FOI officer or practitioner responsible for handling information requests
Working in a public authority, regulator, or oversight body involved in FOI delivery or enforcement
Interested in sharing experiences and challenges around managing FOI requests and complaints
Curious about how collaboration and peer support could help improve FOI practice
Interested in shaping future initiatives that could support practitioners and strengthen FOI delivery