What does EO 13526 cover in relation to security?

Executive Order 13526 specifically addresses the classification of national security information. It establishes a uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national security information. This order outlines the criteria and procedures under which information can be classified as confidential, secret, or top secret, emphasizing the need to protect certain information from unauthorized disclosure to ensure national security.

The focus of EO 13526 is to balance the need for secrecy in certain government functions and activities with the public's right to access government information, thereby framing national security information categorically. This is distinct from other areas such as intelligence oversight or the Freedom of Information Act, which have their separate guidelines and mandates. As such, understanding EO 13526 is essential for anyone involved in managing classified information or involved in national security matters.