CIA Discontinues Its Long-Running "World Factbook" Publication
The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) announced on February 4 the discontinuation of its publication, The CIA World Factbook. This decision marks the end of an era for a resource that has been a staple for decades.
From Classified Document to Public Resource
Originating from a classified Cold War document, The World Factbook transitioned into a widely utilized public online resource in 1997. It served as a primary source for essential facts about countries, governments, and cultures for students, scholars, and the general public.
The World Factbook, which began as a classified Cold War document, transitioned into a widely utilized public online resource in 1997.
The publication's roots trace back to the National Intelligence Survey, established after World War II, which aimed to provide U.S. leaders with comprehensive global information. It was first published in an unclassified version in 1971 and officially renamed The World Factbook in 1981. Throughout its history, the Government Publishing Office consistently listed it as a "perennial bestseller."
A Comprehensive Global Reference
This resource offered detailed data, encompassing political systems, economic indicators, demographics, and cultural information, alongside geographical and historical facts. The CIA reported that the Factbook received millions of annual views, underscoring its broad appeal and utility.
Discontinuation and Its Implications
Following its discontinuation, the Factbook's former web address now redirects to a farewell message. The CIA did not provide a specific reason for ending the publication. This decision, however, aligns with CIA Director John Ratcliffe's stated focus on the agency's core mission of intelligence gathering and analysis.
Preserving Its Legacy
Despite the removal of the official website, numerous copies of the Factbook have been meticulously archived by the Internet Archive. Additionally, physical versions remain readily available in many public and university libraries across the country.
In 2020, the CIA itself described the Factbook as an "indispensable" and "authoritative source of basic intelligence," acknowledging its integral role in the agency's enduring legacy.