Irbid: The Arab World Center for Democratic Development (UNIHRD), in partnership with Germany's Hanns Seidel Stiftung, conducted a specialized training workshop focused on journalism and equitable access to public data in Irbid Governorate on Tuesday. The event aimed to enhance journalists' understanding of data access and its critical role in the media industry.
According to Jordan News Agency, media legislation expert Yahya Shuqair underscored the importance of accessing public data and information as the cornerstone of journalistic endeavors. He highlighted the necessity of proactive disclosure and ensuring that practices are compliant with national legislation. Shuqair elaborated that the law governs information access through a formal request system, which requires journalists to clearly specify the details they seek. This process is designed to facilitate journalistic work by promoting transparency and enabling participation in decision-making.
Samah Bani Hani, UNIHRD Program Director, commented on the workshop's alignment with the center's Governance Program series. She emphasized the center's dedication to fostering good governance, transparency, accountability, and community engagement. The workshop addressed essential themes, including the legal framework regulating the right to information access and the practical needs journalists face when collecting data.