The law abolishing official secrecy has not yet been passed, but there is perspective for improvement. Even though experts are critical of some things.
After a hundred years, an Austrian absurdity must come to an end. The official secret. Instead, the government announces transparency in its bill. Information from federal, state, and local records must be disclosed proactively or upon request. With limitations. Which is not only criticized by other parties. A two-thirds majority is needed, i.e. FPÖ (says no) or SPÖ (thinks). But how can you present this in concrete terms?
An explosive, current example (see graph below) of rededications (real estate transactions by political leaders). What remains officially hidden would become transparent according to the law. Or information about campaigns by energy companies. Anyone can check the truth. All this could reduce corruption.
“It is an improvement compared to the status quo, but it could have been much better after all these years,” says legal expert Alfred Noll, who as a politician used to fight for freedom of information and against official secrets. “Something crucial is missing: offices are not forced to make the bureaucracy accessible on their own initiative.”
There would also be no ombudsman like in Germany who could make quick decisions. “And the restriction to places with more than 5,000 inhabitants is a horror.” According to the draft, if you wanted to change the law, you would need the consent of all countries. It is unlikely that official secrecy will be completely abolished anytime soon.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
