What does the term "declassification" refer to?

The term "declassification" refers to the process of reviewing classified information to determine its status. This involves evaluating whether the information still requires protection under classification standards or if it can be released to the public or reclassified at a lower level of sensitivity. This assessment ensures that sensitive information no longer posing a risk to national security can be made available, thereby promoting transparency and accountability while maintaining the integrity of ongoing classified materials.

Marking information as sensitive, securely storing classified materials, and creating new classification levels do not align with the concept of declassification. Those actions concern the management and designation of classified information rather than the evaluation and removal of its classified status.