What Is Freedom Of Access To Information?

Freedom of access to information is a concept which means that the people of a country should have access to government information. This information may include military secrets, details of government communication to other countries, trade deals, the results from government surveys of its people and much more. Countries which respect this concept and enact it into law require government officials and authorities to release information about its activities regularly. Any data which the government collects can be subject to a freedom of information request in countries where the government believes in this concept. It is closely connected to the right of free speech: where people are allowed to say whatever they like, including criticising the government, without fear of being punished or censored.

WHY IS THIS AN EMERGING ISSUE?

The adoption of this freedom has been an emerging issue in Africa ever since South Africa passed the first law requiring it on the continent in 2000 and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights guaranteed it under Article 9. This is because as the governments of African countries continue to expand their democratic practices, international outreach and protection of human rights, the people of those countries are continually demanding the right to know about and criticise their approach.

WHY SHOULD WE HAVE FREEDOM OF ACCESS TO INFORMATION?

When people and journalists have access to government information, they are able to supervise and criticise the government’s activities better. The government knows that they have to release this information, and therefore government officials are less likely to commit wrongs against their own people for fear of losing popularity. Another principle explaining the need for these laws is that people have the right to the information of their elected government, because the government works for and serves the people. Freedom of information laws are essential for a healthy democracy where people directly elect their leaders. In order to make an informed choice about who to vote for in a democracy, the people must be informed about the work of the government officials.

HAS IT BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN AFRICA?

Only 14 of the 55 African countries have signed freedom of information laws since 2015, while 16 are still lobbying for its implementation and 25 have no plans to implement it. There are many reasons for this low participation rate: corruption, inexperience in leadership, lack of democratic action and the colonial legacy. Many politicians argue that the government must keep its information secret because it threatens national security, as this information could be used by its competitors or enemies. However, many countries worldwide have general freedom of information regimes without releasing secretive information about the military or trade negotiations. Often, these countries release important information after a certain time period has elapsed to ensure that it is not relevant to the current political situation they are in.

CLAIRE GERRAND

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