Transparency & Democracy
Ensuring access to information necessary for self-government
The First Amendment embraces the public’s right to access the information needed to hold the powerful accountable and participate fully in the process of self-government.
Our aim in defending and promoting transparency is not simply to compel the disclosure of information that the public is entitled to know, but to broaden public access to information through changes in government policy and the law.
Featured
Deep Dive
The Press and American Democracy
Identifying four distinct constitutional functions of "the press"
By Robert C. PostLATEST NEWS & ANALYSIS
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Press Statement
Knight Institute Condemns Widespread Deployment of Police Forces on University Campuses Nationwide
“An assault on free speech” and “deeply reckless,” Institute says
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Press Statement
Office of Legal Counsel Ordered to Release Many of Its Legal Opinions
Landmark ruling is a victory for transparency and accountability
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Deep Dive
Knight Institute Calls for Urgent “Course Correction” on Response to Student Protests at Columbia University
Letter to President Shafik raises concerns about university decisions and policies relating to free speech on campus
LITIGATION & ADVOCACY
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Lawsuit
National Association of Immigration Judges v. Neal
A lawsuit challenging a government policy silencing immigration judges
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Lawsuit
The Texas Tribune v. Caldwell County
A case challenging the exclusion of the press and public from bail hearings in Caldwell County, Texas.
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Lawsuit
The Foundation for Global Political Exchange v. Department of the Treasury
A case challenging OFAC’s suppression of the exchange of political ideas
RESEARCH
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Deep Dive : Jawboning
Jawboning in 2025
When the new administration starts—led either by President Biden or President Trump—what will the state of jawboning be?
By Matt Perault -
Deep Dive : The Future of Press Freedom Scholars Series, Press Freedom
The Enduring Significance of New York Times Co. v. Sullivan
Sullivan protects fundamental press functions—its overruling would be devastating.
By Samantha Barbas -
Deep Dive : The Future of Press Freedom Scholars Series, Press Freedom
“MURDER THE MEDIA”: Press Freedom, Violence, and the Public Sphere
Exploring the relationship between the press and violence in a democratic society
By Joseph Blocher
Events
Columbia University and Online
The Public's Right of Access to Court Proceedings: Power, Practice, and Promise
An event exploring the right of access, transparency in the courts, and technology law
Columbia University and Online
The Future of Press Freedom: Democracy, Law, and the News in Changing Times
A symposium examining what it means to safeguard and support the role of the press in the United States today.
Columbia University and Online
Permission to Speak Freely? Managing Government Employee Speech in a Democracy
A symposium examining the speech rights of public employees—and the threats they face