1.0 Policy provisions
This policy aims to regulate the procedures governing data freedom in a manner that serves public entities, the private sector, and individuals. It seeks to enhance integration and connectivity with clients regarding data freedom, thereby contributing to the advancement of studies and research.
1.1 Transparency
1.1.1 Individuals have the right to know information related to GASTAT's activities, enhancing the framework of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
1.2 Necessity and proportionality
1.2.1 Any restrictions on requests to access or obtain protected information received, produced, or handled by GASTAT must be clearly and explicitly justified.
1.3 The default principle for public information is disclosure
1.3.1 Every individual has the right to access public information—excluding protected information—without the need to demonstrate a specific status or particular interest in the information. Furthermore, individuals exercising this right are not subject to any legal accountability related to it.
1.4 Equality
1.4.1 All requests for access to or obtaining public information are handled on the basis of equality, without discrimination among individuals.
1.5 Individual rights regarding access to or obtaining public information.
1.5.1 The right to access and obtain any non-protected information held by any public entity.
1.5.2 The right to know the reason for the denial of access to or obtaining the requested information.
1.5.3 The right to appeal a decision to deny a request for access to or obtaining the requested information.
1.6 Key steps for requesting access to public information or filing a complaint.
1.6.1 Requests are submitted by completing the "Public Information Request Form"—either electronically or in paper form—and submitting it to the entity holding the information.
1.6.2 Within a specified period (30 days) from receiving the request for access to or obtaining public information, GASTAT shall take one of the following decisions:
• Approval: If GASTAT approves the request for access to or obtaining information, whether fully or partially, the individual must be notified in writing or electronically about the applicable fees. GASTAT must make the information available to the individual within a period not exceeding ten (10) working days from the receipt of payment.
• Rejection: If the request for accessing information is denied, the rejection must be communicated in writing or electronically and must include the following information:
o Indicate whether the request was denied fully or partially.
o Provide the reasons for the denial, if possible.
o Notify the individual of their right to appeal the decision and explain how to exercise this right.
1.6.3 Extension: If it is not possible to process the request for access to information within the specified time frame, GASTAT must extend the response period by a reasonable duration based on the volume and nature of the requested information—for example, not exceeding an additional 30 days—and provide the individual with the following information:
• Notification of the extension and the expected date for completing the request.
• Reasons for the delay.
• Notification of the right to appeal the extension and instructions on how to exercise this right.
1.6.4 Notification: If the requested information is available on GASTAT's website or does not fall under its jurisdiction, the individual must be notified in writing or electronically, including the following details:
• Type of notification, for example, whether the requested information is available on GASTAT's website or does not fall under its jurisdiction.
• Notification of the right to appeal this notification and instructions on how to exercise this right.
1.6.5 If an individual wishes to file a complaint regarding GASTAT's denial of a request, they may submit the complaint in writing or electronically. GASTAT must take the necessary actions in accordance with its internal policies.
1.7 Freedom of information and open data
Open data programs and policies are typically designed and developed to support the growth of the national economy and innovation agenda. Undoubtedly, making a specific set of public information available to researchers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups helps create a favorable environment for business growth and signals the presence of an open and transparent government.
Open data programs and policies represent a proactive step by GASTAT to uphold the right to access public information by making or publishing specific sets of information—designated as open data—available prior to any requests for access or retrieval.
Effective open data programs and policies significantly reduce the volume of requests for access to public information, leading to a decrease in government expenses associated with processing such requests.
1.8 Related Policies
- Data and Cybersecurity Policy.
- Data Protection Policy.
- Data Privacy Policy.
- Open Data Policy.
- Complaints Management and Customer Satisfaction Policy.