Every person has the right to access public information. To exercise this right, simply submit a request to the entity that holds such information.
How to Obtain Public Information
To obtain public information, submit a request to the entity that holds this information.
You can submit a request:
- by email or regular mail
- in person
- by phone.
What to Include in Your Request
The request must include:
- the requester’s name (or entity name): for individuals—last name, first name, and patronymic; for legal entities—the full name of the organization
- a contact address for a response—a mailing address or email address, as well as a phone number (if available)
- a description of the information you wish to obtain. Specify as clearly as possible exactly what information you are interested in. For example, indicate the type, title, details, or content of the document, if known
- signature and date—for requests submitted in paper form.
Do you need to explain the reason for your request?
No. You may request public information regardless of whether it concerns you personally or not, without explaining the reason for your request.
How long will it take to receive a response?
Up to 5 business days from the date the request is received by the authority.
Up to 48 hours—if the request concerns information necessary to protect a person’s life or liberty, the state of the environment, or emergencies that threaten the safety of citizens, etc.
If the request concerns a large volume of information or requires searching through a significant amount of data, the processing period may be extended to 20 business days. You must be notified of this in writing within 5 days.
Do You Have to Pay for the Information?
Information provided upon request is free of charge.
However, if responding to the request requires producing more than 10 pages of paper copies of documents, you must reimburse the actual costs of copying or printing.
You do not have to reimburse these costs if the information concerns you personally or is in the public interest. An exception applies to information regarding the registration of emissions and the transfer of pollutants and waste.
What to do if you don’t receive a response
If you have not received a response or have been denied access to information, you may appeal the administrator’s decision to:
- the head of the administrator
- a higher authority
- the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights; or
- a court.
Where to Get Free Legal Assistance
Anyone can receive a free consultation with a lawyer through the free legal aid system. Lawyers will advise you on your right to access public information, help you draft a request correctly, and, if necessary, prepare a complaint.
Certain categories of people are also entitled to free assistance with filing a lawsuit. These include internally displaced persons (IDPs), war veterans, family members of fallen defenders, low-income individuals, and other categories listed in Article 14 of the Law of Ukraine “On Free Legal Aid.” Lawyers will thoroughly review your circumstances, draft and file a petition with the court if necessary, and represent your interests in court.
How to access the free legal aid system:
- by phone at 0 800 213 103
- all contact information is available at the link: https://legalaid.gov.ua/kliyentam/yak-otrymaty-bpd/