Open data in Lebanon (re-submission)

All the information about a person nowadays are recorded and kept in database. Yet not everyone can have access to this data just like in our country. We live in a democratic country but yet we do not have access to basic database. Access to information is necessary in a democracy (Peled and Rabin 2011, Mendel 2003, Bishop 2009). People should have access to data so that the society could function normally. But if the country gives access for its people to the data, how can it be used?

Open data helps with growth and productivity in different communities, for example it can provide better traffic system and health system, maybe also help fixing environmental problems and other issues that the country face.

In Lebanon, open data can help a lot since there are many problems going on in this country that affects its people on daily bases. Starting with the traffic issues. This issue can be fixed by dealing with by first, analyzing the problem in the areas, then suggesting solutions like building other routes as well as finding what can be done to the layouts already on the ground and finally start working on it. Moving on to the environmental issues we face in this country, to fix them, we should start by finding the main cause that is causing this pollution and report the issue so it can be examined and treated well and resolved.

In addition, people can also have a personal use for this data especially after the civil war. Some people lost their families and in need of answers so they could use this data in order to get them. Until today, the families of the missing or kidnapped still do not have answers to what have happened to their family members. The information about those lost family members, however, needs to be obtained through this open data. In the case that the situation is not dealt with, open data helps the owner hold the politicians or organization responsible for their lack of effort, as they have evidence for the case.

Citizens should have the right to help in decision-making. Letting this happen will encourage their participation and to express meaningful perspectives to help the government. By doing so, the citizens can offer feedback and indicate the problem areas and suggest improvements.

There are few reasons as to why data collected about the people should not be given to them. Through people’s participation, there can be growth in a country and the efficiency of the system of government. Therefore, there is no justification for the refusal of providing information for a good cause, unless, the intent is malicious or destructive.