Thousands of government directors lack security clearance despite handling sensitive documents, civil service officials report.
Lack of Security Clearance for Government Directors
Candidates for work in agencies like the Internal Security Agency or Military Counterintelligence Service undergo thorough checks. However, people appointed through competitions end up in the Prime Minister’s office and ministries, with higher civil service positions filled through daily appointments. According to DGP findings, approximately 3,500 government directors lack security clearance entirely, while those who have it typically possess only the lowest level, covering classified documents.
Civil Servants Resist Verification Procedures
Ordinary civil officials, not just directors, are resisting verification procedures. An official from a ministry explains that having access to confidential documents requires additional burdens, including visiting secret offices, working on specialized computers with disconnected internet, and answering extensive questions from verifying authorities. Trade unions acknowledge that potential spies could be present in government positions, not just those with access to classified materials.
