Everyday Learn a New Key Definition from the C-Fighter Anti-Corruption Guide
ACCESS TO INFORMATION
Definition:
The right by law - often through freedom of information legislation (acts or laws) - to access key facts and data from the government and any public body. Budgets, project approvals and evaluations are typically published although citizens can petition for more materials to be released.
Many countries have access to information or as it is called in some freedom of information legislation. This legislation is one of the most critical tools in a Corruption Fighter's tool box. Oftentimes in order to effectively build your case you need to first make an application under this type of legislation to get the necessary information about whether or not a suspect act is in fact a corrupt one.
It should be noted that most access legislation exempts certain documents which are considered threatening to a country's security, economic, domestic and/or international affairs.
NB: This legislation gives a citizen a right to access information from a Government body or authority NOT against private citizens and corporations.
Relevant links
-- Article 19 Global Campaign for Free Expression.
www.article19.org/work/index.html
-- International Freedom of Expression.
www.ifex.org
-- UNDP Practical Guidance Note on the Right to Information.
www.undp.org/governance/docs/A2I_Guides_RighttoInformation.pdf
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