Open Records Laws › Mongolia

Mongolia

Law of Mongolia on Transparency of Public Information

Law of Mongolia on Transparency of Public Information (Revised edition, 17 December 2021)

Open Records Transparency: 58/100 (moderate) Transparency Score: 58/100

RTI Rating: 87 (source)

Response Timeline

Initial Response
5 days
Extension
10 days
Residency Required
None

5 working days. Extensions up to 10 additional working days allowed considering information scope and preparation time.

How to Submit a Request

Accepted Methods

  • Verbal — Allowed for open information requests only
  • Written — Paper or electronic. Required for restricted information

Open information requests may be verbal or written. Restricted information must be in writing.

Required Elements

  • Applicant name
  • Address
  • Contact phone
  • Purpose of obtaining information
  • Desired form

Fees

Fees limited to direct expenses (copying, delivery). Fee amounts established by organization management and approved by Government.

Fee Waivers

  • Article 16.2 references discount/waiver procedures (implementation status unclear)

Exemptions

  • National security
    Information affecting national security with well-grounded reasons (harm test vague)
  • Personal information
    Personal information unless otherwise provided by law
  • Business secrets
    Trade secrets and confidential commercial information

Most exemptions lack explicit harm tests. NO public interest override exists - major weakness.

Appeal Process

1

Internal Administrative Review

Governed by Law on Resolution of Applications and Complaints

2

National Commission for Human Rights

Responds within 30 days (extendable to 60). May approach courts if entities refuse

3

Court Appeal

Right to appeal to courts

Independent review by National Commission for Human Rights with investigative powers and 1-year filing window. Internal review lacks dedicated RTI deadlines.

Sources & References