Systematic disclosure
Reporting data at source
Transparency should be an integral and systematic part of extractive sector management. EITI implementing countries are increasingly disclosing data at source – through government and company databases, online registries, websites and portals – providing citizens and stakeholders with accessible and up to date information on the sector.
When governments make the transition to systematic disclosure, EITI reporting becomes simpler and more cost-effective. This approach, also known as mainstreaming, enables stakeholders to shift their focus from data collection to data use, analysis and debate.
For companies, disclosing data at source helps build trust by improving their social license to operate, setting expectations with communities and citizens and supporting a level playing field for business.
In accordance with the EITI open data policy, systematic disclosure is a default expectation for EITI reporting. Furthermore, in cases where transparency is widespread and data quality is of sufficient quality, countries may seek EITI Board approval to systematically disclose data without reconciling payment data in accordance with EITI Requirement 4.9.
Tracking progress
We regularly monitor country-level progress on systematic disclosure of extractive sector data through a dynamic tool, which enables users to track how countries fare in mainstreaming specific disclosure requirements of the EITI Standard.
Systematic disclosure explained
Learn what systematic disclosure involves, what it does not, and how to apply good practice in EITI implementation.
Systematic disclosure in action
Indonesia
Indonesia systematically discloses laws and regulations for the extractive sector through government websites. In 2023, Indonesia’s MSG launched an Extractive Data Portal, to supplement and summarise information disclosed by different government agencies. In its first phase, the portal collates, integrates and discloses data arranged by ten EITI requirements, with plans to broaden the scope of data included.
Ghana
The Ghana Online Repository publishes data on all issued mineral rights; exploration, mining, dealers and exporters licenses, as well as related payments. The Repository is managed by the Minerals Commission (MC), under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. The data is published directly from the MC MCAS system, where all licenses are managed.
Norway
Norway is a world leader in terms of systematic disclosure of extractives data, and disclosures relevant to the EITI Standard are updated and released on a regular basis on multiple government websites. These are consolidated and summarised on the Norwegian Petroleum website, which is maintained by the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (MPE). This website features data that meets best practice in open data, with data being published in a variety of formats and adhering to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). It also includes continuously updated and customisable maps and other visualisations.
Strengthening public oversight
EITI multi-stakeholder groups (MSGs) oversee EITI implementation and disclosures. Where data is routinely disclosed, MSGs can maintain strong sector oversight by focusing their efforts on gaps in government and corporate reporting systems and issues that are matter most for stakeholders. A report commissioned by the EITI provides recommendations on how to bridge the gap between current systems and routine reporting.
This approach is one of the most important steps that implementing countries can take in delivering on the original purpose of the EITI – publishing data in a way that enhances the value of resources for citizens.
To this end, the EITI is undertaking a project to pilot alternative approaches to reporting, encouraging MSGs to use data to undertake analysis, influence decision makers and direct information to a wider set of users.
News, blogs and events
Lobito Corridor: Governance and transparency key to unlocking development potential
Digging deeper: How Armenia is leading the way in beneficial ownership transparency
Who benefits? Harnessing company ownership data to reduce corruption
Tackling the energy transition with data
What’s next for the extractive sector in Norway?
Transparency at source: How do countries fare?
