1. Scope of Policy Application

This policy applies to all requests to access or obtain public (non-protected) information produced by Jouf University, regardless of its source, format, or nature. This includes, but is not limited to: paper records, emails, computer-stored information, audio tapes, video recordings, maps, photographs, manuscripts, handwritten documents, or any other recorded form of information.

The provisions of this policy do not apply to protected information, including the following:

1. Information whose disclosure would harm the national security of the state, its policies, interests, or rights.
2. Military and security-related information.
3. Information and documents obtained under agreements with another country and classified as protected.
4. Investigations, inquiries, enforcement actions, inspections, and surveillance activities related to a crime, offense, or threat.
5. Information containing recommendations, proposals, or consultations related to legislation or governmental decisions that have not yet been issued.
6. Commercial, industrial, financial, or economic information where disclosure may result in unlawful gain or avoidance of loss.
7. Scientific or technical research, or rights that involve intellectual property, where disclosure may compromise moral rights.
8. Information related to tenders, bids, and auctions where disclosure may undermine fair competition.
9. Information deemed confidential or personal under another law, or that requires specific legal procedures for access or disclosure.

2. Core Principles of Freedom of Information

Principle 1: Transparency

• Every individual has the right to access information related to the public activities of Jouf University, in support of transparency, integrity, and accountability.

Principle 2: Necessity and Proportionality

• Any restriction on the right to access protected information held, produced, or managed by Jouf University must be clearly and explicitly justified.

Principle 3: Disclosure by Default

• Every individual has the right to access public, non-protected information.
• Requesters are not required to have a specific legal status or demonstrate a particular interest to access such information.
• No legal liability shall be imposed on the requester for exercising this right.

Principle 4: Equality

• All requests to access or obtain public information shall be treated equally, without discrimination between individuals.

3. Individual Rights Related to Accessing Public Information from Jouf University

1. The right to access and obtain any non-protected information held by any public entity.
2. The right to be informed of the reason for any denial of access to or request for information.
3. The right to appeal the decision to deny access to or obtain requested information.