Request government information — how do I do it?
Woo request (Open Government Act, since 2022, was Wob): right to request government documents. (1) What can I request: all info administrative bodies possess, excluding private: reports, emails, policy papers, official agendas, meeting minutes, contracts, financial overviews. (2) Who can request: anyone (Dutch, expat, foreigner, journalist, researcher). No reason required. (3) Apply: written (email/letter) to administrative body: council, ministry, etc. Specify documents + period. Too vague = returned for specification. (4) Term: 4 weeks response (4-week extension possible). On inaction: penalty procedure. (5) Cost: free. No fees. Minor admin charges on bulky requests rare. (6) Often refused: third-party personal data (anonymization possible), state security, investigation interest, foreign relations, business confidential, fair market chances. (7) Contest refusal: objection within 6 wks at body. Then appeal at admin court (€55 individual, €370 org). Success rate objection ~30%. (8) Reuse: requested info free to use/publish (no privacy/copyright violation). (9) Request for research/journalism: extra legal protection, ombudsman + EU Court of Justice support openness.
Step by step
- 1Specify documents + periodWhich reports/emails/contracts? Which date range? Specific prevents refusal “vague”.
- 2Send written requestEmail or letter to admin body. Cite Open Government Act (Woo).
- 3Wait 4 wks (max +4 wks)Extension must be written + motivated. On inaction: penalty + objection delay.
- 4Object/appeal on refusal6 wks objection (free at body), then appeal (€55 individual).
All contacts
Frequently asked questions
Cost of Woo request?
Free. No fees. Bulky requests (>100 work hours) may charge admin costs, rare. Court appeal: court fee (€55 individual, €370 org). Pro bono lawyer: free for low-asset.
Can employer request info on me?
General info yes, but your personal data protected (GDPR). Body must anonymize or refuse on identifiable data. On suspected abuse: GDPR complaint at Data Protection Authority.
Sources
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