The impact of the right of access to information on sustainable development goals under the Aarhus Convention.

Access to information is a critical tool for citizen oversight of environmental issues. This right is enshrined in the Aarhus Convention. Recognizing the importance of sustainability for present and future generations, Turkey has embraced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and actively pursued related initiatives. This study focuses on the environmental SDGs most relevant to Turkey, examining the role of access to information in achieving them. Fifteen expert interviews in Turkey were conducted and analyzed using MAXQDA 24 software. The findings, primarily contextualized within Turkey, reveal important, albeit incomplete, progress in access to information rights. This right is seen as essential for realizing the SDGs, yet challenges remain. Limited public awareness emerges as the biggest obstacle, as an effective information access system hinges on societal engagement.