The Norwegian ministries’ records centers in the public sphere

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the culture of transparency in the Norwegian ministries considering the public sphere. The research question has been as follows: to what extent do the Norwegian ministries’ records registration and transparency practices contribute to the public sphere today? Design/methodology/approach A follow-up study after the Norwegian Auditor General’s investigation of records management and transparency in the Norwegian ministries and at The Office of the Prime Minister in 2014–2016 is presented. The design was a case study. The methods were a combination of an interview and document research. Findings Registries are published faster than when the original investigation was done, which means the possibilities of debate are increased. However, wide use of confidentiality provisions may indicate that too many records are defined as belonging to the private sphere. Registration routines have improved, which may increase control of the ministries. However, this is counteracted by extensive use of exception clauses. Originality/value Research about the public sphere has usually dealt with the participants in public debate and places for debate. This paper broadens the perspective using data from various official sources to shed light on the role of records centers and online public records registries in the public sphere.