WRITTEN ON September 27th, 2006 BY William Heath AND STORED IN Foundation of Trust, What do we want?

How very propitious to be in Finland on International Right to Know Day. They’ve had FoI here since 1766, thanks to the Swedes.

Privacy International has released a study of FoI in 70 countries, Dave Banisar writes in the excellent Edrigram

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.

For events on 28 September see this fine Banisar map of FoI