The Historical Archives of Itamarati (Arquivo Histórico do Itamarati) has faced significant criticism over the past four decades due to the restrictions it imposes on Brazilian and foreign researchers when accessing its holdings. In this article, the author elucidates the reasons behind the adoption of a policy of secrecy within this institution. Furthermore, the article highlights the more liberal approach of its new regulations, which aim to strike a balance between the state's interests in national security and the right to privacy and information, characteristic of the new Brazilian democratic regime.
