New book by NZ investigative journalist Nicky Hager #Peacemonger is a biography with a purpose. Do you know of NZ peace activist Owen Wilkes? How he approached researching military incursions, especially by US "Defence" (offence?), could be an example for many other activists. How do you find out what government is up to? Learning to read budget documents and industry publications are two places to start building that mental framework to spot breadcrumbs to secrets!!
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300764666/lots-of-information-isnt-secret-its-just-hard-to-find-nicky-hager-on-the-investigative-techniques-of-one-of-nzs-most-famous-whistleblowers