Information security/Opening up raw government data to everyone, free of charge

Despite pledges by the G7 and G20 to improve transparency in government data, which could help reduce corruption and improve state services, data remained locked away from public view in more than 90 percent of nations surveyed, The Web Foundation said.

Eighty-six countries were ranked in the Open Data Barometer on how readily their governments make data available, including information on government budgets and spending, public sector contracts, company ownership, health services and education.

Open data refers to data that is proactively published, and made available without charge, in readable file formats and without restrictions on use.

The United Kingdom topped the rankings for the second consecutive year, followed by the United States, Sweden, France and New Zealand.

Most governments conceal data despite G20 pledges, study says