What role does transparency play in the context of FOI?

Transparency plays a crucial role in the context of Freedom of Information (FOI) because it empowers stakeholders by providing them access to government information. This access fosters an environment where individuals and organizations can effectively monitor government actions and decisions, promoting accountability and encouraging civic participation. With transparency, stakeholders can also engage in informed discussions and provide feedback or influence policy creation, which ultimately enhances democratic governance.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of FOI. For instance, transparency cannot appropriately be associated with increased secrecy, as that directly contradicts the purpose of FOI, which is to open up information access. Similarly, limiting information sharing to expert circles or restricting public engagement undermines the goal of fostering an informed citizenry, which is vital in a democratic society where public input is essential for legitimate governance.