Freedom of Information
Resource Hub
The Freedom of Information Resource Hub is your gateway to understanding, utilizing, and benefiting from the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in The Bahamas. ORG empowers citizens with tools to promote transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. Together, let’s create a more informed and active society.
Start your FOIA journey. Search ORG resources and news related to Freedom of Information.
At ORG, we believe that access to information is the cornerstone of a strong democracy. We believe a fully enacted Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), can empower Bahamians to seek the truth, hold institutions accountable, build trust in government, and play an active role in shaping their communities. Explore our tools, guides, and resources designed to help you navigate FOIA and make your voice count.
FOIA FAQs
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives the public the legal right to request access to records held by public authorities. It promotes transparency, accountability, and informed citizen participation.
2. Is the FOIA in effect in The Bahamas?
The FOIA was passed in 2017, and an Information Commissioner was appointed in 2021. However, as of 2025, the Act is not fully enacted—public access provisions are still pending implementation.
3. What kind of information can I request?
You can request any non-exempt records held by public bodies, including government ministries, departments, and some state-owned enterprises. Examples include reports, contracts, statistics, or meeting minutes.
4. Are there any exemptions?
Yes. Certain types of information may be exempt to protect national security, personal privacy, commercial confidentiality, or ongoing investigations.
5. How do I make a FOIA request?
Once the Act is fully enacted, requests must be made in writing—electronically or in print—directed to the relevant public authority. The request must describe the information you’re seeking and include your contact details.
6. How long will it take to get a response?
The authority must acknowledge your request within 5 working days and provide a decision within 30 calendar days. In special cases, this may be extended by another 30 days.
7. What if my request is denied?
You will receive a written explanation. You can first request an internal review. If unsatisfied, you can appeal to the Information Commissioner, and, if necessary, the courts.
8. Is there a cost involved?
Access to records may involve a nominal fee, especially if printed copies are requested. Details will be outlined in the final regulations when the Act is fully implemented.
9. Can I make an anonymous request?
No. FOIA requests in The Bahamas require the requester to provide their name and contact information.
10. Why does FOIA matter?
Access to information is a cornerstone of democracy. It empowers citizens to hold public bodies accountable, helps prevent corruption, and ensures better decision-making.
The FOIA Roadmap
Follow the timeline to see how the Freedom of Information Act has evolved in The Bahamas—key milestones, delays, and the growing public movement to make access to information a reality.
The FOIA Process at a Glance
This graphic outlines an estimated process for submitting a FOIA request based on the 2017 FOIA Act and is intended for informational purposes only. The law remains un-enacted, and Bahamians currently cannot submit official FOIA requests until regulations are finalized and the Act is brought into force.
Positive Impacts of a Fully Enacted FOIA
FOIA enables citizens to hold leaders accountable for their decisions and actions, access data that informs public discussions and policy recommendations, and strengthen trust between the government and its citizens by fostering openness.
Advancing the Act and How Citizens Can Take Action
Despite progress, achieving a fully enacted FOIA requires continued effort. Citizens can: Submit requests to public authorities to increase transparency, Advocate for consistent implementation of the Act, and Support organizations like ORG working toward an open and accountable government.
FOIA Citizen Letter Writing Tool
Now That You’re Informed—Get Involved
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a powerful tool that can strengthen our democracy, promote transparency, and build public trust. But until it’s fully enacted, Bahamians remain without the legal right to access critical public information.
That’s where you come in.
With our easy-to-use FOIA Letter Writing Tool, you can make a difference in just a few minutes. Simply answer a few quick questions and the tool will help you draft a personalized letter or email for you to send to your Member of Parliament, urging them to prioritize the full enactment of FOIA.
Every message adds encouragement. Every voice counts.
Let’s turn awareness into action—start your letter now and be a part of the push for greater transparency in The Bahamas.
Best Practice Tips for Using ORG’s FOIA Letter Writing Tool
- Use the Template—and Make It Yours
ORG’s letter is already written in a respectful and professional tone, so you’re starting on the right foot. To make your message even stronger, take a moment to add a personal note about why transparency and the Freedom of Information Act matter to you. Think about how access to information could help your community, improve accountability, or support issues you care about—a few sentences go a long way in showing your MP this matters to real people. - Follow Up—But Don’t Spam
Give it a week or two, then check in to see if your MP received your letter. A simple follow-up email, phone call, or visit is more powerful than resending the same message over and over. The goal is to open a respectful conversation—not overwhelm. - CC ORG
When you send your letter, consider copying (cc) citizens@orgbahamas.com. This helps ORG track advocacy efforts and support the national call for full FOIA enactment. - Share Your Action
After you send your letter, let others know! Mention it in a group chat, post about it on social media (respectfully), or encourage your friends and family to use the tool too. - Stay in the Know
Keep checking theFOIA Hub for updates, tips, and news about FOIA and government transparency efforts. Staying informed keeps your advocacy strong. - Invite Others to Join In
Get your coworkers, classmates, or neighbours involved. The more people who speak up, the harder it is to ignore. It only takes a few minutes—but it makes a difference.