Applying Text-as-data Methods to Information Requests: A Novel Approach to Study Different Political Phenomena

In various jurisdictions, access to information (ATI) policies were adopted to serve government oversight functions and assist in detecting abuse of political power for personal gain. The initially envisaged purpose of ATI policies has also affected how they are studied. As a result, the predominant research focus has been on their impact as anti-corruption policies. This study followed two aims: (1) to propose an argument that requesters seek information far beyond such a narrow definition of accountability, and (2) to make a case for information requests as a novel way to study different political phenomena. By applying text-as-data methods to 37,364 information requests submitted to the UK central government through the platform WhatDoTheyKnow over a decade, I show that the use of information requests is heterogeneous. Information requests are a valuable indicator of public reactions to recently adopted or modified policies. Requesters share their experiences, voice concerns about how these policies impact their lives, and seek clarification. The results also illustrate the innovative use and utility of information requests for studying politics.