Global Freedom of Information Survey

(Dieser Artikel ist auch in deutscher Sprache verfügbar)

Privacy International released on 20 September 2006 a comprehensive review
of Freedom of Information (FOI) Laws and practices in nearly 70 countries
around the world, including almost 40 countries from Europe

Titled “Freedom of Information Around the World 2006 Global Survey of Access
to Government Information Laws”, the survey draws attention to the growing
movement around the world to adopt FOI laws. In just the past two years,
over a dozen countries have adopted new laws and decrees, while dozens more
are considering proposals. Important international treaties such as the UN
Convention Against Corruption have also gone into force. These laws are
being used to fight corruption, make government bodies accountable and
promote social and human rights.

The survey also highlights that many problems still exist such as poorly
drafted laws, lax implementation and an ongoing culture of secrecy in many
countries. There are also dangers in backsliding such as in Ireland where
the imposition of onerous fees has significantly reduced use of the law and
in the United Kingdom where a similar proposal is being considered. New laws
promoting secrecy in the global war on terror have also undercut access.

The report is being released just prior to the Annual International Right to
Know Day on 28 September. Advocates in dozens of countries will be holding
events celebrating the day.

An interactive version of the survey in conjunction with freedominfo.org and
the Open Society Justice Institute will be released shortly.

Freedom of Information Around the World 2006 Global Survey of Access to
Government Information Laws (20.09.2006)
http://www.privacyinternational.org/foi/survey

Events on Annual International Right to Know Day – 28 September 2006
http://www.foiadvocates.net/map2006.php

(Contribution by David Banisar – Privacy International)