1. What is the right to information and what does it mean?

The right to information is a legal right that grants individuals access to information and documents obtained through the activities of public institutions and organizations. This right allows citizens to access a wide range of information, not only on matters that directly concern them, but also on matters of interest to them. This increases transparency in public administration, democratizes access to information, and strengthens individual participation in governance.

2. Who can benefit from this right?

The right to information is granted not only to citizens of the Republic of Türkiye but also to legal entities such as associations, foundations, and companies. Foreign nationals may also exercise this right, subject to the conditions specified in the law.

3. Can information be requested from any institution?

Yes. Ministries, universities, municipalities, the Central Bank, ÖSYM, RTÜK (Student Selection and Placement Center), Police Departments, and all similar public institutions are obligated to accept requests for information. This also applies to professional organizations that are public institutions (e.g., bar associations, medical chambers, and chambers of architects). Many institutions today have dedicated application forms on their websites for this right. For example, this way, you can learn about the number of students at a university, the number of passports issued nationwide, or traffic accident statistics in a specific region.

4. On what topics can information be requested?

Subject to exceptions stipulated in the law, institutions and organizations are obligated to respond to requests for information. Applications must be processed quickly, effectively, and accurately. This right allows citizens to access a wide range of information they need and are curious about.

5. Are institutions obliged to provide all information?

The right to information is restricted in certain areas. Information considered state secrets, matters concerning national security, documents related to judicial and administrative investigations, trade secrets, and private personal information are excluded from the scope of this request. If the requested documents contain confidential sections, these sections will be removed and the applicant will be notified with a justification. Furthermore, information already published on the institution's website or made public through a press release will not be shared again. Furthermore, requests requiring institutions to conduct special investigations may be rejected. For example, a citizen's request for "how many apricot trees are there in Malatya" may be considered within this scope.

6. How to apply?

Applications for information can be submitted to relevant institutions and organizations via written petition, electronic means, or other means of communication. Applications must include your name, surname, signature, and address. Application forms are available on the institutions' websites, and most applications are submitted through these forms. Furthermore, personnel working at information units are responsible for assisting applicants throughout the process.

7. How long does it take to respond to the application?

Institutions and organizations must respond to requests for information  within fifteen days.  Responses must be submitted in writing, either by mail or electronically. If the application is rejected, the applicant must be informed of the reasons for the rejection and the options available for appeal.

8. What to do if no response is given or an unclear answer is received?

If the application is rejected, the applicant   may appeal to the Information Evaluation Board  within fifteen days . The Board must rule on the appeal within thirty days  . If the Board also rejects the application, the applicant  may file a lawsuit with the Council of State within sixty days  . 

9. Is there a fee for the application?

By law, only the cost of providing information and documents can be charged. However, in practice, since most applications are submitted electronically and responses are submitted in the same manner, no fee is charged.

10. What law is the right to information based on?

In Turkey, the right to information   is legally guaranteed by the Right to Information Law No. 4982 .