A Review of the Department of Energy Classification

With the end of the Cold War, the Department of Energy is engaged in a review of its policies regarding the classification of information. This book recommends fundamental principles to guide declassification policy. It also offers specific suggestions of ways to improve public access while protecting sensitive information.

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With the end of the Cold War, the Department of Energy is engaged in a review of its policies regarding the classification of information. In 1994, the Secretary of Energy requested the assistance of the National Research Council in an effort to "lift the veil of Cold War secrecy." This book recommends fundamental principles to guide declassification policy. It also offers specific suggestions of ways to improve public access while protecting truly sensitive information.

Table of Contents


FRONT MATTER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
1 CONTEXT
2 A DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT SYSTEM
3 BASIC PRINCIPLES AND PRIORITIES
4 ISSUES IN CLASSIFICATION POLICY
5 DECLASSIFYING DOCUMENTS
6 INCENTIVES AND ACCOUNTABILITY
7 SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THE REPORT
REFERENCES CITED
APPENDIX A: CHARGE TO THE COMMITTEE
APPENDIX B: BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS
APPENDIX C: WORK SESSION AGENDA AND LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
APPENDIX D: LIST OF COMMITTEE MEETINGS