in focus
Learn more ››
key issues
View all
News
View all Calendar of Events
Add an event
Related Communities
Civic Engagement
Freedom of Information Promoting Public Sector Transparency
Civil society can often promote transparency in the public sector by participating in campaigns to pass Freedom of Information (FOI) laws. Freedom of information legislation requires governments to disseminate information that is requested or is of significant public interest. In essence, the legislation directly promotes transparency in the public sector. Today more than 50 countries have freedom of information laws, and 15–20 more are considering them.
The effectiveness of freedom of information laws requires efforts from both government and civil society. Government must pass sound legislation and establish clear institutional mechanisms for implementation of the law. Yet in many cases, civil society must pressure the government to pass these laws. Several organizations have been notably active in organizing freedom of information campaigns. Established in 1984, the Campaign for Freedom of Information based out of London has been working to ensure that FOI laws are implemented effectively. In South Africa, the Open Democracy Advice Centre (ODAC) provides services that help organizations campaign for and utilize FOI laws. The National Campaign for People's Right to Information (NCPRI) has worked in India since 1966 to push forward laws promoting transparency. Finally, Article 19 is an organization working with partners in over 30 countries to strengthen their capacity to campaign for the free flow of information. In September 2000, Article 19’s Europe Programme embarked on a two-year project which focused on promoting freedom of information in Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Montenegro and Romania. Most recently, Article 19 announced the launch of a freedom of information legislation campaign in Malasia.
Civil society organizations have also focused on ensuring that available information is accessible to citizens. In Macedonia, local organizations increasing the number of citizen information centers have successfully increased citizen participation in promoting transparency (see Article 19’s Survey of Freedom of Information in Central and Eastern Europe). In India, civil society has begun utilizing the internet to educate citizens about their rights to information through the Goa Right to Information and Freedom of Expression page. Moreover, various foundations such as the Partnership Transparency Fund issue grants for projects promoting better access to public information.
Civil society organizations active in campaigns to pass and implement FOI laws have begun to form an international network. These civil society groups work increasingly with one another, sharing experiences and strategies.
Related Links:
Related Links:
View previous highlights ››
LATEST ADDITIONS
View all resources ››
