By Indicator detail
Please find below the lists of indicators that have been used to analyse each law. You can click on each of them and you will get the result for that indicator in each country.
| Country | Description | Scoring instructions | Max score | Finding | Points | Article | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albania | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1(2) The rules contained in this law are designated to ensure the public access to information, in the framework of assuming the rights and freedoms of the individual in practice, as well as establishing views on the state and society situation. 1(3) This Law aims to promote integrity, transparency and accountability of public authorities. | |
| Angola | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | N/A | Preamble and Article 1 State Secrecy Act Act 10/02 of 16 August, stipulates as follows: articles 2 and 26 |
| Antigua and Barbuda | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | The Bill is intended to facilitate the right of the public to have access to information held by public authorities in order to further the public interest by promoting informed discussion of public affairs and greater accountability of public authorities. | 1 - in the explanatory memorandum 1 - in the explanatory memorandum |
| Argentina | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | ARTÍCULO 1° — Objeto. La presente ley tiene por objeto garantizar el efectivo ejercicio del derecho de acceso a la información pública, promover la participación ciudadana y la transparencia de la gestión pública, y se funda en los siguientes principios: ... Buena fe: para garantizar el efectivo ejercicio del acceso a la información, resulta esencial que los sujetos obligados actúen de buena fe, es decir, que interpreten la ley de manera tal que sirva para cumplir los fines perseguidos por el derecho de acceso, que aseguren la estricta aplicación del derecho, brinden los medios de asistencia necesarios a los solicitantes, promuevan la cultura de transparencia y actúen con diligencia, profesionalidad y lealtad institucional. | |
| Australia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 3 Objects—general (1) The objects of this Act are to give the Australian community access to information held by the Government of the Commonwealth, by: (a) requiring agencies to publish the information; and (b) providing for a right of access to documents. (2) The Parliament intends, by these objects, to promote Australia’s representative democracy by contributing towards the following: (a) increasing public participation in Government processes, with a view to promoting better‑informed decision‑making; (b) increasing scrutiny, discussion, comment and review of the Government’s activities. (3) The Parliament also intends, by these objects, to increase recognition that information held by the Government is to be managed for public purposes, and is a national resource. (4) The Parliament also intends that functions and powers given by this Act are to be performed and exercised, as far as possible, to facilitate and promote public access to information, promptly and at the lowest reasonable cost. | 1 - s. 3(4) 1 - s. 3(3) |
| Bahamas | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Section 4. Objects of this Act (1) The objects of this Act are to reinforce and give further effect to certain fundamental principles underlying the system of constitutional democracy, namely— (a) governmental accountability; (b) transparency; and accountability (c) public participation in national decision making, by granting to the public a general right of access to records held by a public authority, subject to exemptions which balance that right against the public interest in exempting from disclosure of information at the lowest reasonable cost. (2) The provisions of this Act shall be interpreted so as to further the objects set out in subsection (1) and any discretion conferred by this Act shall be exercised, as far as possible, so as to facilitate and promote the disclosure of information at the lowest reasonable cost | |
| Bangladesh | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | The Preamble of the Constitution: "...Pledging that the high ideals of absolute trust and faith in the Almighty Allah, nationalism, democracy and socialism meaning economic and social justice, which inspired our heroic people to dedicate themselves to, and our brave martyrs to sacrifice their lives in the war for national independence, shall be fundamental principles of the Constitution; Further pledging that it shall be a fundamental aim of the State to realize through the democratic process to socialist society, free from exploitation - a society in which the rule of law, fundamental human rights and freedom, equality and justice, political, economic and social, will be secured for all citizens; Affirming that it is our sacred duty to safeguard, protect and defend this Constitution and to maintain its supremacy as the embodiment of the will of the people of Bangladesh so that we may prosper in freedom and may make our full contribution towards international peace and cooperation in keeping with the progressive aspirations of mankind;" | 1 - Preamble |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Article 2. "This Act shall be interpreted so as to facilitate and encourage the maximum and prompt disclosure of information in the control of public authorities at the lowest reasonable cost." Article 1 "The purposes of this Act are: a. to acknowledge that information in the control of public authorities is a valuable public resource and that public access to such information promotes greater transparency and accountability of those authorities, and is essential to the democratic process;". | |
| Brazil | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Article 3. The procedures established by this Law are intended to ensure the fundamental right of the access to information and should be performed according to the basic principles of the Public Administration and the following guidelines: I – observance of publicity as a general rule and of secrecy as the exception; II – disclosure of information of public interest, irrespective of requests; III – use of the means of communication available through information technology; IV – promotion of a culture of transparency within the Public Administration; V – development of the social control of the Public Administration | BRAZILIAN ACCESS TO INFORMATION BILL APPROVED BY THE SENATE ON 25 OCTOBER 2011 ARTICLE 3 [promotion of culture of transparency and development of social control over public admin.] |
| Canada | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Interim Directive: 3.1 The core principle of the Access to Information Act is that government information should be available to the public, subject only to limited and specific exceptions to protect privacy, confidentiality and security. By providing access to government information, the Act serves the important public interest of enabling public debate on the conduct of government institutions, strengthening the accountability of government to its citizens. The Act should be administered with these core principles in mind. 7.1 7.1.1 Exercising discretion in a fair, reasonable and impartial manner after completing the following steps: Consideration of the core principle of the Act that government information should be available to the public, subject only to limited and specific exceptions to protect privacy, confidentiality and security; Consideration of the purpose of the Act: by providing access to government information, the Access to Information Act serves the important public interest of enabling public debate on the conduct of government institutions, strengthening the accountability of government to its citizens; Consideration of the relevant provisions of the Act, as well as applicable jurisprudence; Necessary consultations, for the proper exercise of discretion and application of the exemption and exclusion provisions of the Act including consultations with other government institutions and third parties; Review of the information contained in records; and Consideration, in a fair and unbiased manner, of all relevant factors. The above considerations apply to all provisions of the Act for which the head or the delegate exercises discretion. 7.8.1 Invoking exemptions by properly considering the core principle of the Act that government information should be available to the public, subject only to limited and specific exceptions to protect privacy, confidentiality and security, the purpose of the Act and relevant jurisprudence. | |
| Colombia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | N/A | See for example: Decision T-705 of 2007 by the Constitutional Court. |
| Cook Islands | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 4. Purposes - The purposes of this Act are, consistently with the principle of the Executive Government's responsibility to Parliament – (a) to increase the availability of official information to the people of the Cook Islands in order – (i) to enable their more effective participation in the making and administration of laws and policies; and (ii) to promote the accountability of Ministers of the Crown and officials, and thereby to enhance respect for the law and to promote the good government of the Cook Islands; (b) to provide for proper access by each person to official information relating to that person; (c) to protect official information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the preservation of personal privacy. | |
| Dominican Republic | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | CONSIDERANDO: Que la Constitución de la República Dominicana en su Artículo 2 establece que: "La soberanía nacional corresponde al pueblo, de quien emanan todos los Poderes del Estado, los cuales se ejercen por representación". CONSIDERANDO: Que la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos (Naciones Unidas 1948) en su Artículo 19 establece que: "Todo individuo tiene derecho a la libertad de opinión y de expresión; este derecho incluye el de no ser molestado a causa de sus opiniones, el de investigar y recibir informaciones y opiniones y el de difundirlas, sin limitación de fronteras, por cualquier medio de expresión". CONSIDERANDO: Que el Artículo 8, Inciso 10 de la Constitución de la República establece que: "Todos los medios de información tienen libre acceso a las fuentes noticiosas oficiales y privadas, siempre que no vayan en contra del orden público o pongan en peligro la seguridad nacional". CONSIDERANDO: Que el Artículo 13 de la Convención Interamericana sobre Derechos Humanos (Pacto de San José de Costa Rica), ratificada por la República Dominicana, mediante Resolución No.739, de fecha 25 de diciembre de 1977, establece que: "Toda persona tiene derecho a la libertad de pensamiento y expresión. Este derecho comprende la libertad de buscar, recibir y difundir informaciones e ideas de toda índole, sin consideración de fronteras, ya sea oralmente, por escrito o en forma impresa o artística, o por cualquier otro procedimiento de su elección". CONSIDERANDO: Que el Pacto Internacional de los Derechos Civiles y Políticos, ratificado mediante la Resolución 684, de fecha 27 de octubre de 1977, establece que: El ejercicio del derecho de investigar y recibir informaciones y opiniones y el de difundirlas, entraña deberes y responsabilidades especiales; y que por consiguiente, puede estar sujeto a ciertas restricciones, que deberán, sin embargo, estar expresamente fijadas por la ley y ser necesarias para asegurar el respeto a los derechos o a la reputación de los demás y la protección de la seguridad nacional, el orden público o la salud o la moral públicas. CONSIDERANDO: Que el precitado Pacto Internacional de los Derechos Civiles y Políticos en su parte II, numeral 2, establece que: cada Estado Parte se compromete a adoptar, con arreglo a sus procedimientos constitucionales y a las disposiciones del mismo Pacto, las medidas oportunas para dictar las disposiciones legislativas o de otro carácter que fueren necesarias para hacer efectivos los derechos reconocidos en él y que no estuviesen ya garantizados por disposiciones legislativas o de otro carácter. CONSIDERANDO: Que el derecho de los individuos a investigar y recibir informaciones y opiniones y a difundirlas está consagrado como un principio universal en varias convenciones internacionales, ratificadas por la República Dominicana, razón por la cual el Estado está en el deber de garantizar el libre acceso a la información en poder de sus instituciones. CONSIDERANDO: Que conforme a lo que establece el párrafo del Artículo 3 de nuestra Constitución: "La República Dominicana reconoce y aplica las normas del Derecho Internacional general y americano en la medida en que sus poderes las hayan adoptado....". CONSIDERANDO: Que, según establece el Artículo 8 de la Constitución de la República, la finalidad principal del Estado es la protección efectiva de los derechos de la persona humana y el mantenimiento de los medios que le permitan perfeccionarse progresivamente dentro de un orden de libertad individual y de justicia social, compatible con el orden público, el bienestar general y los derechos de todos. CONSIDERANDO: Que el derecho de acceso a la información gubernamental es una de las fuentes de desarrollo y fortalecimiento de la democracia representativa en tanto permite a los ciudadanos analizar, juzgar y evaluar en forma completa los actos de sus representantes, y estimula la transparencia en los actos del Gobierno y de la Administración. CONSIDERANDO: Que para garantizar el libre acceso a la información pública se requiere de una ley que reglamente su ejercicio y que, entre otras cosas, establezca las excepciones admitidas a este derecho universal para el caso que exista un peligro real e inminente que amenace la seguridad nacional o el orden público. VISTA la Constitución de la República Dominicana en sus Artículos 2, 3, y 8. VISTA la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos (Naciones Unidas 1948). VISTO el Pacto Internacional de los Derechos Civiles y Políticos. VISTO el Artículo 13 de la Convención Interamericana sobre Derechos Humanos (Pacto de San José de Costa Rica). | Preamble |
| Ecuador | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | ARTICLE 4 Principios de Aplicación de la Ley.- En el desarrollo del derecho de acceso a la información pública, se observaran los siguientes principios: d) Las autoridades y jueces competentes deberán aplicar las normas de esta Ley Orgánica de la manera que más favorezca al efectivo ejercicio de los derechos aquí garantizados;(...) ARTICLE 2 Objeto de la Ley.- La presente Ley garantiza y norma el ejercicio del derecho fundamental de las personas a la información conforme a las garantías consagradas en la Constitución Política de la República, Pacto Internacional de Derechos Civiles y Políticos, Convención Interamericana sobre Derechos Humanos y demás instrumentos internacionales vigentes, de los cuales nuestro país es signatario. Persigue los siguientes objetivos: a) Cumplir lo dispuesto en la. Constitución Política de la República referente a la publicidad, transparencia y rendición de cuentas al que están sometidas todas las instituciones del Estado que conforman el sector público, dignatarios, autoridades y funcionarios públicos, incluidos los entes señalados en el artículo anterior, las personas jurídicas de derecho privado que realicen obras, servicios, etc., con asignaciones públicas. Para el efecto, adoptarán las medidas que garanticen y promuevan la organización, clasificación y manejo de la información que den cuenta de la gestión pública; b) El cumplimiento de las convenciones internacionales que sobre la materia ha suscrito legalmente nuestro país; c) Permitir la fiscalización de la administración pública y de los recursos públicos, efectivizándose un verdadero control social; d) Garantizar la protección de la información personal en poder del sector público y/o privado; e) La democratización de la sociedad ecuatoriana y la plena vigencia del estado de derecho, a través de un genuino y legítimo acceso a la información pública; y, f) Facilitar la efectiva participación ciudadana en la toma de decisiones de interés general y su fiscalización. | 1 - Art 4(d) 1 - Art 2 |
| El Salvador | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | ARTICLE 4 "En la interpretación y aplicación de esta ley deberán regir los principios siguientes: a. Màxima publicidad: la información en poder de los entes obligados es publica y su difusión irrestricta, salvo las excepciones expresamente establecidas por la ley.(...)" PREAMBLE 5 Que, en virtud de lo expuesto, es indispensable emitir una ley de acceso a la información pública que regule de manera armónica el ejercicio de los derechos humanos enunciados, promueva la participación ciudadana, la eficiencia de la administración pública, la lucha contra la corrupción y la generación de una cultura de transparencia. | Article 4(a) 1 - Preamble 5. Similar principles are repeated throughout the law. |
| Estonia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1. Purpose of Act The purpose of this Act is to ensure that the public and every person has the opportunity to access information intended for public use, based on the principles of a democratic and social rule of law and an open society, and to create opportunities for the public to monitor the performance of public duties. | |
| Ethiopia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 11(3) to encourage and promote public participation, public empowerment, to foster a culture of transparency, accountability and efficiency in the functions of public bodies and to encourage and promote good governance. | 11(3) 11(3) |
| Finland | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | [Principles of Openness] Article 2. This Act contains provisions on the right of access to official documents in the public domain, officials' duty of non-disclosure, document secrecy and any other restrictions of access that are necessary for the protection of public or private interests, as well as on the duties of the authorities for the achievement of the objectives of this Act. Article 3. The objectives of the right of access and the duties of the authorities provided in this Act are to promote openness and good practice on information management in government, and to provide private individuals and corporations with an opportunity to monitor the exercise of public authority and the use of public resources, to freely form an opinion, to influence the exercise of public authority, and to protect their rights and interests. | |
| Guatemala | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | PREAMBLE: [...] CONSIDERANDO: Que la Carta Magna establece con absoluta determinación la publicidad de los actos y la información en poder de la administración pública, así como el libre acceso a todas las instituciones, dependencias y archivos de la misma, sin más excepciones que las previstas en el citado texto constitucional. CONSIDERANDO: Que para armonizar el derecho de las personas a acceder a la información en poder de la administración pública y a todos los actos, entes e instituciones que manejan recursos del Estado bajo cualquier concepto, se hace necesario emitir las normas que desarrollen esos principios constitucionales a efecto de contar con un marco jurídico regulatorio que garantice el ejercicio de esos derechos y, que establezca las excepciones de la información confidencial y reservada, para que ésta no quede al arbitrio y discrecionalidad de persona alguna. CONSIDERANDO: Que en armonía y consonancia con lo anteriormente considerado, con base en el texto constitucional de Guatemala y los instrumentos internacionales sobre derechos humanos suscritos y vigentes en el país, se hace necesario emitir una ley que desarrollando esos derechos defina los principios, objetivos, procedimientos y en general aquellos aspectos necesarios para darle seguridad y certeza a todas las personas, consiguiendo hacer efectivo su derecho al acceso a la información pública y a su participación dentro de la auditoria social y fiscalización ciudadana hacia todos los funcionarios, empleados públicos, organismos, instituciones y en general hacia todo aquel que maneje, use, administre o disponga de recursos del Estado de Guatemala. [...] Artículo 1. La presente ley tiene por objeto: (1) Garantizar a toda persona interesada, sin discriminación alguna, el derecho a solicitar y a tener acceso a la información pública en posesión de las autoridades y sujetos obligados por la presente ley; (2) Garantizar a toda persona individual el derecho a conocer y proteger los datos personales de lo que de ella conste en archivos estatales, así como de las actualizaciones de los mismos; (3) Garantizar la transparencia de la administración pública y de los sujetos obligados y el derecho de toda persona a tener acceso libre a la información pública; (4) Establecer como obligatorio el principio de máxima publicidad y transparencia en la administración pública y para los sujetos obligados en la presente ley; (5) Establecer, a manera de excepción y de manera limitativa, los supuestos en que se restrinja el acceso a la información pública; (6) Favorecer por el Estado la rendición de cuentas a los gobernados, de manera que puedan auditar el desempeño de la administración pública; (7) Garantizar que toda persona tenga acceso a los actos de la administración pública. Artículo 6: Es toda persona individual o jurídica, pública o privada, nacional o internacional de cualquier naturaleza, institución o entidad del Estado, organismo, órgano, entidad, dependencia, institución y cualquier otro que maneje, administre o ejecute recursos públicos, bienes del Estado, o actos de la administración pública en general, que está obligado a proporcionar la información pública que se le solicite [...] | Stated in law's introduction, preamble, Article 1 and Article 6. Yes - in the law's introduction, the preamble, and Article 1. |
| Guyana | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 3(1) The objective of this Act is to extend the right of members of the public to access information in the possession of public authorities by - (a) creating a general right of access to information in documentary form in the possession of public authorities limited only by exceptions and exemptions necessary for the protection of essential public interests and the private and business affairs of persons in respect of whom information is collected and held by public authorities; and (b) making available to the public, information about the operations of public authorities and, in particular, ensuring that the authorisations, policies, rules and practices affecting members of the public in their dealings with public authorities are readily available to persons affected by those authorisations, policies, rules and practices. (2) The provisions of this Act shall be interpreted so as to further the objective set out in subsection (1) and any discretion conferred by this Act shall be exercised as far as possible so as to facilitate and promote, promptly and at the lowest reasonable cost, the disclosure of information. AN ACT to provide for setting out a practical regime of right to information for persons to secure access to information under the control of public authorities in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of the Government and public authorities and for the appointment of the Commissioner of Information. | 1. Section 3(2) does this well. 2. Preamble - promote transparency and accountability in government. |
| Honduras | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | CONSIDERANDO: Que Honduras es un Estado de Derecho en donde los funcionarios son depositarios de la autoridad, responsables legalmente por su conducta oficial, sujetos a la Ley y que tienen la obligación de cumplir sus funciones con eficiencia, ética y responsabilidad social; CONSIDERANDO: Que la transparencia y la rendición de cuentas son garantías para un mejor desempeño del servidor publico y del gobierno en general y, además, condiciones necesarias para una efectiva participación ciudadana en la construcción de una autentica democracia; CONSIDERANDO: Que el derecho de acceso a la Información Publica es garantía de transparencia para que los ciudadanos puedan fiscalizar y exigir cuentas a los servidores públicos, a cada paso del proceso y en cualquier momento, y, además, constituye un medio eficaz contra la corrupción; CONSIDERANDO: Que cuanto mayor sea el conocimiento de los ciudadanos sobre la acción publica, mayor será su participación en la toma de decisiones y su confianza en la función gubernamental; CONSIDERANDO: Que el pueblo hondureño tiene el derecho de acceso a la información, así como a la transparencia y rendición de cuentas de la gestión publica y, que además, el Estado ha ratificado la Convención Intermedian contra la Corrupción en la que se reconocen expresamente estos derechos; [...] | |
| Indonesia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 2(2) An exception to the Public Information is restrictive and limited. Preamble: Considering: (a) that information is a basic need of every person to develop their personality as well as their social environment, and is a significant part of the national security; (b) that the right to obtain information is a human right and transparency of public information is a significant characteristic of a democratic state that holds the sovereignty of the people in high esteem, to materialize good state management; (c) that transparency of public information is a mean to optimize public supervision on the organizing of the state and other public agencies and everything that affects the interest of the public; (d) that public information management is an effort to develop an informative society; (e) that based on the consideration as referred to in letter a, letter b, letter c, and letter d, it is necessary to issue a Law regarding public information transparency. (3) This law is aimed at the following: (a) To secure the right of the citizens to know public policy planning, public policy programs, and the process of public decision-making, as well as the reason of the concerning public decision-making; (b) To encourage public participation in the process of a public policy-making; (c) To increase the active role of the people in public policy-making and in good Public Agency management; (d) To materialize good governance, that is transparent, effective and efficient, accountable and responsible; (e) To know the rationale of a public policy that affects the life of the people; (f) To develop sciences and to increase the knowledge of the nation; and/or (g) To enhance the information management and service at Public Agency, so as to produce good quality information service. | |
| Italy | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Article 1(1) Transparency is seen as full accessibility to the data and documents held by the public administrations, for the purpose of protecting the fundamental rights of citizens, promoting the participation of any interested party in the administrative activities, and fostering widespread forms of control on the pursuance of the institutional functions and the use of public funds. (2) Transparency, without prejudice to the provisions ruling the state secret, professional secrecy, statistical secrecy and protection of personal data, contributes to the implementation of the democratic principle and the constitutional principles of equality, impartiality, smooth running, responsibility, effectiveness and efficiency in the utilization of public funds, integrity and loyalty in the service to the country. Transparency is a condition for guaranteeing individual and collective freedoms, as well as civil, political and social rights, it adds up to the right to a good administration and contributes to the realization of an open administration, at the service of citizens. | |
| Jamaica | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Article 2. The objects of this Act are to reinforce and give further effect to certain fundamental principles underlying the system of constitutional democracy, namely - (a) governmental accountability; (b) transparency; and (c) public participation in national decision-making, by granting to the public a general right of access to official documents held by public authorities, subject to exemptions which balance that right against the public interest in exempting from disclosure governmental, commercial or personal information of a sensitive nature. | |
| Kyrgyzstan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1. The objectives of this Law are to ensure the implementation and protection of the right of everyone to access the information under the jurisdiction of the information holders determined by this Law, and to achieve maximum information openness, publicity, transparency in their activities. 2.4. In the application of this Law, its provisions shall be interpreted in a way that allows for the fullest realization of its goals and the goals of exercising the right of access to information set forth in Article 1 and Part 2 of Article 5 of this Law. 5.2. The purposes of exercising the right of access to information shall be: (1) strengthening freedom of speech and opinion; (2) creation of conditions for quick and equal access of everyone to the information under the control of the information holders; (3) strengthening public confidence in public sector entities; (4) assistance in the detection and suppression of corruption, other types of crimes and offenses, as well as facts of unfair public administration; (5) increasing the accountability of information holders; (6) exercise of public control over the fulfillment of public and legal obligations by public sector entities. | No reference to external benefits. |
| Liberia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1.4(b): "Everyone has a right of access to information generated, received and or held by public bodies, subject only to such limitations as are necessary and narrowly established for reason of an equally or more compelling public interest." | 1 - Preamble. |
| Mexico | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Article 7. The right of access to information or classification of the information shall be interpreted under the principles established in the Constitution of the United Mexican States, international treaties to which the Mexican State is a party and this Act. In the enforcement and interpretation of this Act shall prevail the principle of maximum disclosure, as provided in the Constitution of the United Mexican States, in international treaties to which the Mexican State is a party, as well as the binding resolutions and rulings issued by specialized national and international bodies, favoring at all times the broadest protection for people. In the case of interpretation, the criteria, findings and opinions of national and international organizations on transparency may be taken into account. Article 2. The purposes of this Act are: I. Distribute powers between the Guarantor Agencies of the Federation and the Federal States, regarding transparency and access to information; II. Set the minimum basis governing the procedures in order to ensure the right of access to information; III. Establish consistent procedures and conditions in the exercise of the right of access to information through simple and expeditious procedures; IV. Govern the legal remedies and procedures for bringing actions of unconstitutionality and constitutional controversies by the Guarantor Agencies; V. Lay the foundations and public interest information to be disseminated proactively; VI. Regulate the organization and functioning of the National Transparency System, Access to Information and Protection of Personal Data, and establish the foundations of coordination among its members; VII. Promote, encourage and disseminate the culture of transparency in the exercise of public functions, access to information, public participation and accountability, through the establishment of public policies and mechanisms that ensure the publication of information that is timely, verifiable, understandable, current and complete, which is distributed in the most appropriate and accessible formats to the public and considering at all times the social, economic and cultural conditions of each region; VIII. Promote citizen participation in public decision-making in order to contribute to the consolidation of democracy, and IX. Establish mechanisms to ensure compliance and effective implementation of enforcement measures and relevant penalties. | |
| Mozambique | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | ARTIGO I (Purpose) The present law regulate the exercise of the RTI, in order to make effective the constitutional democratic principle of the (democratic and permanent) citizens participation in public life and to guarantee the Fundamental Rights related. ARTIGO 4 (Principles) 2. The exercise of the RTI is ruled by the following principles: a) respect of human dignity; b) widest disclosure of information; c) public interest; d) transparency in the work of both public and private entities; e) permanent accountability to the citizens; f) open public administration; g) prohibition of unlimited exceptions; h) promotion of the exercise of citizenship; i) (democratic and permanent) citizens participation in public life; j) simplicity and celerity of legal and regulatory procedures; k) respect of classified information. Right to Information Law Regulation ARTIGO 4 (Principles) 1. The principles established by the RTI Law represent official interpretation and integration of all rules on the right to information. 2. In case of contradiction between different interpretation of the same rule of the RTI Law and the present Regulation, the interpretation which appear more appropriate in relation to the principle of the RTI Law prevails. ARTIGO 26 (Restrictions and limits) The concrete application of restrictions and limits to the right to information has to be necessary and proportional to the protected interest in all situations, and in case of doubts the right to information prevails. | Right to Information Law, Right to Information Law Regulation |
| New Zealand | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 4. Purposes. The purposes of this Act are, consistently with the principle of the Executive Government's responsibility to Parliament (a) to increase progressively the availability of official information to the people of New Zealand in order— (i) to enable their more effective participation in the making and administration of laws and policies; and (ii) to promote the accountability of Ministers of the Crown and officials,— and thereby to enhance respect for the law and to promote the good government of New Zealand: (b) to provide for proper access by each person to official information relating to that person: (c) to protect official information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the preservation of personal privacy . | |
| Nicaragua | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Artículo 3.- Para los fines de la presente Ley, se establecen los siguientes principios: 1. Principio de Acceso a la Información Pública: Toda persona sin discriminación alguna, tiene derecho a solicitar y recibir datos, registros y todo tipo de información pública en forma completa, adecuada y oportuna de parte de todas las entidades sometidas al imperio de la presente Ley, salvo las excepciones previstas como información reservada. 2. Principio de Publicidad: El ejercicio y actividad de las atribuciones y competencia de las entidades sometidas al imperio de esta Ley, así como la administración de su patrimonio público están sometidas al principio de publicidad. En consecuencia toda la información existente en posesión de las entidades señaladas tendrá carácter público y será de libre acceso a la población, salvo las excepciones previstas en la presente Ley. 3. Principio de la Multi-etnicidad: El pueblo de Nicaragua es de naturaleza multi-étnica y por lo tanto la información pública deberá proveérsele también en las distintas lenguas existentes en la Costa Atlántica de nuestro país. 4. Principio de Participación Ciudadana: las entidades sometidas al imperio de esta Ley promoverán la participación ciudadana. A tales fines, los ciudadanos podrán directamente o a través de cualquier medio, solicitar la información que requieran para presentar propuestas y formular opiniones sobre la gestión pública del país. 5. Principio de Transparencia: Las entidades sometidas al imperio de esta Ley, a través de sus oficiales gubernamentales, funcionarios y servidores públicos, están en el deber de exponer y someter al escrutinio de los ciudadanos la información relativa a la gestión pública y al manejo de los recursos públicos que se les confían. 6. Principio de Responsabilidad: Promueve el uso responsable de la información pública que implica su manejo completo, integral y veraz. 7. Principio de Prueba de Daño: Garantiza que, la autoridad al catalogar determinada información como de acceso restringido, fundamente y motivo los siguientes elementos: a. La información se encuentra prevista en alguno de los supuestos de excepción previstos en la propia Ley. b. La liberación de la información puede amenazar efectivamente el interés público protegido por la Ley. c. El daño que puede producirse con la liberación de la información es mayor que el interés público de conocer la información de relevancia. | |
| Norway | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Constitution of Norway, Article 100, Paragraph 5: "It is the responsibility of the authorities of the State to create conditions that facilitate open and enlightened public discourse." | |
| Pakistan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Preamble: WHEREAS Government believes in transparency and the right to have access to information to ensure that the people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan have improved access to records held by public authorities and promote the purposes of making the Government more accountable to its people, of improving participation by the people in public affairs, of reducing corruption and inefficiency in Government, of promoting sound economic growth, of promoting good governance and respect for human rights; 3(2) This Act shall be interpreted so as to advance its purposes as set out in the preamble and to- (a) promote the right of access to information; and (b) facilitate and encourage promptly the disclosure of the information at the lowest and reasonable cost. | |
| Panama | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Artículo 1: Para efectos de la aplicación e interpretación de esta Ley, los siguientes términos se definen así: (...) 11. Principio de publicidad: Toda la información que emana de la administración pública es de carácter público, por lo cual el Estado deberá garantizar una organización interna que sistematice la información, para brindar acceso a los ciudadanos y también para su divulgación a través de los distintos medios de comunicación social y/o de Internet.12. Rendición de cuentas: Obligación de todo servidor público de responsabilizarse individualmente de sus actos en el ejercicio de sus funciones y en la comunicación de los resultados de su gestión ante la sociedad. Esta obligación de rendir cuentas también les corresponde a los cuerpos directivos colegiados de las instituciones públicas. 13. Transparencia: Deber de la administración pública de exponer y someter al escrutinio de la ciudadanía la información relativa a la gestión pública, al manejo de los recursos que la sociedad le confía, a los criterios que sustentan sus decisiones y a la conducta de los servidores públicos. | Articles 1(11) and 1(13) of Law 6 of 2002. Articles 1(12) and 1(13) discuss the need for transparency and accountability - deserving of a point. |
| South Africa | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Preamble: AND IN ORDER TO— * foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public and private bodies by giving effect to the right of access to information; * actively promote a society in which the people of South Africa have effective access to information to enable them to more fully exercise and protect all of their rights; 9. The objects of this Act are— (c) to give effect to the constitutional obligations of the State of promoting a human rights culture and social justice, by including public bodies in the definition of ‘‘requester’’, allowing them, amongst others, to access information from private bodies upon compliance with the four requirements in this Act, including an additional obligation for certain public bodies in certain instances to act in the public interest; … and (e) generally, to promote transparency, accountability and effective governance of all public and private bodies by, including, but not limited to, empowering and educating everyone— (i) to understand their rights in terms of this Act in order to exercise their rights in relation to public and private bodies; (ii) to understand the functions and operation of public bodies; and (iii) to effectively scrutinise, and participate in, decision-making by public bodies that affects their rights. 2(1) When interpreting a provision of this Act, every court must prefer any reasonable interpretation of the provision that is consistent with the objects of this Act over any alternative interpretation that is inconsistent with those objects. | |
| South Sudan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Art. 3, 4(2), 4(3) | |
| Taiwan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1 This Law is enacted to establish the institution for the publication of government information, facilitate people to share and fairly utilize government information, protect people’s right to know, further people’s understanding, trust and overseeing of public affairs, and encourage public participation in democracy. | Article 1 |
| Tajikistan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | Art 6(1)(f) Art 6(1) | |
| Uganda | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 3. Purpose of Act. The purpose of this Act is – (a) to promote an efficient, effective, transparent and accountable Government; (b) to give effect to article 41 of the Constitution by providing the right of access to information held by organs of the State, other than exempt records and information; (c) to protect persons disclosing evidence of contravention of the law, maladministration or corruption in Government bodies; (d) to promote transparency and accountability in all organs of the State by providing the public with timely, accessible and accurate information; and (e) to empower the public to effectively scrutinise and participate in Government decisions that affect them. | 1 - Section 3 |
| Venezuela | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 1. Esta Ley tiene por objeto garantizar el ejercicio del derecho de acceso a la información de interés público, como medio para favorecer la participación protagónica del pueblo en el diseño, formulación y seguimiento de la gestión pública y fortalecer el Estado democrático y social de Derecho y de Justicia. 2. Esta Ley tiene la siguiente finalidad: 1) Garantizar el derecho de acceso a la información de interés público, reconocido en la Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela y los tratados internacionales suscritos y ratificados por la República. 2) Contribuir al cumplimiento de los principios constitucionales de honestidad, participación, celeridad, eficacia, eficiencia, transparencia, rendición de cuentas y responsabilidad en el ejercicio de la función pública. 3) Favorecer la participación protagónica del pueblo en el diseño, formulación y seguimiento de la gestión pública. 4) Fortalecer el Estado Democrático y Social de Derecho y de Justicia. 5. En caso de duda en la interpretación o aplicación de esta Ley prevalecerá aquella que garantice la mayor efectividad del derecho de acceso a la información de interés público. | |
| Yemen | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | YES | 2 | 3: "This law aims to: A. Secure and facilitate the citizen's right to access information without delay and expand the rules of the exercise of rights and freedoms. B. Promote the elements of transparency and expand all opportunities for conscious and responsible participation. C. Enable the community to develop their abilities to take more advantage of the information." | Art 3 mentions expanding access, and is certainly a statement of principles - I think that's worth a point. Art 3 talks about promoting transparency and expanding participation in government |
| Afghanistan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 2(2) The objectives of this law are: 2. Ensure transparency, strengthen the culture of provision of information, promote people’s participation in good governance, ensure accountability in the conduct of institutions, and combat corruption. | Emphasises benefits but no rule on interpretation. |
| Andorra | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 9. General principles of access Public administrations must take the necessary measures to ensure compliance with the law access to public information by establishing an integrated document, information and data management system that allows interoperability between public administrations, the location of any document or information and the automatic linking of each document or data set to its access and advertising regime. Article 9. Principis generals d’accés Les administracions públiques han d’adoptar les mesures necessàries per garantir el compliment del dret d’accés a la informació pública establint un sistema de gestió de documents, informació i dades integrat que permeti la interoperabilitat entre les administracions públiques, la localització de qualsevol document o informació i la vinculació automàtica de cada document o conjunt de dades al seu règim d’accés i publicitat. | |
| Bolivia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: That access to public information, in a timely, complete, adequate and truthful manner, is an indispensable requirement for the functioning of the democratic system and a fundamental pillar of transparent public management; particularly in access to information necessary to investigate crimes against humanity, human rights violations, crimes of economic damage to the State and acts of corruption. 4. The right of access to information is recognized to all people as a fundamental presupposition for the full exercise of citizenship and the strengthening of democracy. | Weak statement of the benefits and no specific provision that the law be interpreted broadly. |
| Bulgaria | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 2. Within the meaning of this act, public information shall be any information relating to the social life in the Republic of Bulgaria, and giving opportunity to the citizens to form their own opinion on the activities of the persons having obligations under this act. | 3.1 In constitutional court decision N0 7 of 4 June 1996 on case N0 1 of 1996 it is stated that the right to information shall be interpreted broad and the restrictions narrowly. So check the score. |
| Burkina Faso | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 2 : La présente loi a pour but de: - contribuer à promouvoir la transparence, la reddition des comptes, la bonne gouvernance et le développement. Article 5 : Le droit d’accès à l’information publique et aux documents administratifs est soumis aux principes suivants : - la liberté ; - l’égalité ; - la gratuité | Limited principles and no rule on interpretation. |
| Cape Verde | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 11(4) The grounds for rejection and the respective protected interests must be interpreted in a restrictive manner in view of the public interest underlying the disclosure of information. | Only interpretation and only relating to exceptions but one point given. |
| Chile | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | ARTICLE 11. El derecho de acceso a la información de los órganos de la Administración del Estado reconoce, entre otros, los siguientes principios:(...) c) Principio de apertura o transparencia, conforme al cual toda la información en poder de los órganos de la Administración del Estado se presume pública, a menos que esté sujeta a las excepciones señaladas. d) Principio de máxima divulgación, de acuerdo al que los órganos de la Administración del Estado deben proporcionar información en los términos más amplios posibles, excluyendo sólo aquello que esté sujeto a las excepciones constitucionales o legales. | |
| China | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1 These Regulations are formulated so as to ensure that citizens, legal persons, and other organizations obtain government information in accordance with law, to increase the level of transparency in government work, to a rule of law government, to give full play to the role of government information in serving the public's production and livelihood and their economic and social activities. 19 Administrative organs shall proactively disclose government information related to adjustments of the public's interests, that require broad public understanding, or require public participation in decision making. | Discussion of benefits in Article 1 enough for 1 point. Article 19 only refers to proactive disclosure. |
| Costa Rica | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble. Considerando: I.- Que el artículo 30 de la Constitución Política consagra el derecho fundamental de acceso a la información pública de la siguiente manera: "Se garantiza el libre acceso a los departamentos administrativos con propósitos de información sobre asuntos de interés público. Quedan a salvo los secretos de Estado". II.-Que la Sala Constitucional de la Corte Suprema de Justicia, en su vasta jurisprudencia, ha interpretado el artículo 30 de la Constitución Política como el derecho de obtener y difundir información de naturaleza pública, siendo un elemento esencial de la organización democrática costarricense, para garantizar la transparencia y la publicidad en la función pública. III.- Que en el contexto del Sistema Interamericano de Derechos Humanos, el derecho humano de acceso a la información pública está ampliamente tutelado mediante diversos instrumentos, principalmente en el artículo 13 de la Convención Americana sobre Derechos Humanos y en los Principios sobre el derecho de acceso a la información de la Organización de Estados Americanos (resolución CJI/RES.147 del 7 de agosto de 2008). ....IX.- Que el Estado está llamado a efectuar todas aquellas acciones necesarias para resguardar el derecho de acceso a la información pública, entendido como un derecho democrático esencial para afianzar la gobernanza, el principio de transparencia, la rendición de cuentas y la participación ciudadana. El Gobierno de la República está comprometido a dar los pasos necesarios para fortalecer decisivamente el derecho a la información pública en todas sus manifestaciones, como herramienta indispensable para el logro de una sociedad abierta y transparente. Por tanto; 1.- Objetivo. El presente Decreto tiene por objeto que el Estado garantice el cumplimiento efectivo del derecho humano de acceso a la información pública, de forma proactiva, oportuna, oficiosa, completa y accesible. | |
| Croatia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Art.3.: The objective of this Law is to ensure exercising of the right of access to information, as well as the re-use of information, as granted by the Constitution of the Republic of Croatia, to natural persons and legal entities, through openness and publicity of actions taken by public authority bodies. | Covers Indicator 3.1 |
| East Timor | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1. Access to official documents shall be ensured in accordance with the present law in accordance with the following principles: A) Transparency; B) Equality; C) Impartiality; D) Protection of Personal Data. | No rule on interpretation |
| Ghana | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: AN ACT to provide for the implementation of the constitutional right to information held by a public institution, subject to the exemptions that are necessary and consistent with the protection of the public interest in a democratic society, to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public affairs and to provide for related matters. | Very weak statement of benefits and no reference to interpretation |
| Guinea | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 3. La présente loi a pour objet de garantir le droit de tout citoyen d'accéder à l'information d'intérêt public et aux documents administratifs afin de permettre : - l'obtention de l'information; le renforcement des principes de transparence et de reddition des comptes et surtout en ce qui concern la gestion des services publics; - l'amélioration de la qualité du service public et le renforcement de la confiance dans les organismes soumis aux dispositions de la présente loi; - le renforcement de la participation du citoyen à l'élaboration, au suivi, à la mise en oeuvre et à l'évaluation des politiques publiques; - le renforcement de la recherche scientifique. | Sets out principles but doesn't address interpretation |
| India | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: AND WHEREAS democracy requires an informed citizenry and transparency of information which are vital to its functioning and also to contain corruption and to hold Governments and their instrumentalities accountable to the governed; [...] | Focus on the benefits but no rule about interpretation. |
| Ireland | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble contains this, as does Article 11(3) An FOI body, in performing any function under this Act, shall have regard to - (a) the need to achieve greater openness in the activities of FOI bodies and to promote adherence by them to the principle of transparency in government and public affairs, (b) the need to strengthen the accountability and improve the quality of decision- making of FOI bodies, and (c) the need to inform scrutiny, discussion, comment and review by the public of the activities of FOI bodies and facilitate more effective participation by the public in consultations relating to the role, responsibilities and performance of FOI bodies. | 1 point given under indicator 3.2. Preamble: An Act to enable members of the public to obtain access, to the greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest and the right to privacy, to information in the possession of public bodies [...] |
| Israel | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | N/A | Not in the law - contained in the paragraphs accompanying the law. |
| Japan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1 (Purpose) The purpose of this Act is, in accordance with the principle of sovereignty of the people, and by providing for the right to request the disclosure of administrative documents, etc., to endeavor towards greater disclosure of information held by administrative organs thereby ensuring to achieve accountability of the Government to the citizens for its various activities, and to contribute to the promotion of a fair and democratic administration that is subject to the citizens appropriate understanding and criticism. | Broad interpretation – no. Emphasises benefits – yes. |
| Kosovo | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 4(1) Every person’s right to access public documents, and the guarantee and fulfilment of this right by public institutions, constitutes one of the foundations of democratic and transparent institutions. (4) The disclosure of data and transparency in the public sector serve to the public accountability in terms of social, economic and democratic development and advancement. | No mention of broad interpretation. |
| Kuwait | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Explanatory Note: In light of the international conventions signed by the State of Kuwait, which entered into force and became a part of its legislations, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption, and after the issuance of the Law № (2) for the year 2016 with regards to establishing Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority and the special provisions relating to financial disclosure, given the importance of the freedom of information exchange and the right to peruse and access information in all fields in order to anchor the principle of transparency and integrity in economic and administrative formalities in such a way as to guarantee good governance for the assets, resources and possessions of the State and the best use thereof to materialize the first objective of the Anti-Corruption Authority, it was decided to work on issuing a law that regulates this right. | Weak statement of benefits with only a few referred to and no rule on interpretation. |
| Lithuania | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 3. Basic Principles of Provision of Information to the Public "1. Freedom of information embedded in the Constitution, this Law and other laws and treaties of the Republic of Lithuania shall be guaranteed in the Republic of Lithuania. 2. Producers and disseminators of public information as well as journalists and publishers in their activities shall be governed by the Constitution, laws and treaties of the Republic of Lithuania, also by the principles of humanism, equality, tolerance and respect for every human being; they shall respect freedom of speech, creativity, religion and conscience, and the diversity of opinion, adhere to the norms of professional ethics and the provisions of the Code of Ethics of Lithuanian Journalists and Publishers, contribute to the development of democracy and public openness, promote civil society and state progress, enhance the state independence and nurture the state language, national culture and morality. 3. Public information must be presented in the media in a fair, accurate and impartial manner. 4. The enjoyment of freedom of information may be restricted by the requirements, conditions, restrictions or penalties which are laid down in laws and are necessary in a democratic society to protect Lithuania's state security, its territorial integrity, public order and constitutional system, to guarantee the impartiality of its judicial authority with a view to preventing violations of law and crimes and disclosure of confidential information, and to protect public health and morality as well as their private life, dignity and other rights." | |
| Malawi | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 6(1) Subject to the Constitution and any other written law, when interpreting this Act, the presumption that favours access to information shall be preferred to that restricting information. | Provision on interpretation but no list of benefits which go beyond those relating direction to access. |
| Maldives | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 20(a) Every section in this Chapter [on exceptions] shall be interpreted to accommodate and maintain the principles prescribed in this section and without imposing limitations on the said principles. 70. In enforcing and interpreting provisions of this Act, the onus shall be on the interest of fully enabling the right to information. | Some rather general rules on interpretation but no reference to benefits. One point allocated although this is rather generous. |
| Moldova | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 2 Objectives of the present law The present law aims: ... b) to increase the effectiveness of the process of informing the public, and control on the part of citizens over the activity of public authorities/institutions; c) to stimulate the formation of opinions and active participation of people in the decision making activities in a democratic way. | Weak statement of benefits and no rule on interpretation. |
| Mongolia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 5.1: The following principles shall be adhered to in the activity of ensuring information transparency and the right to information: 5.1.1. Rule of law; 5.1.2. Respect for the citizen's and legal entities lawful interests; 5.1.3 All information other than those classified as "confidential" according to the laws shall be open to the public; 5.1.4. Independence; 5.1.5 The activity of providing public with information shall be prompt. | Somehow gives rules on interpretation, although somewhat weak. No reference to benefits. |
| Montenegro | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 1 "Access to the information filed with government age ncies shall be free, whereas it shall be exercised in the manner prescribed by this Law. Any national or foreign legal and natural entity sh all be entitled to access the information filed with government agencies. Access to the information shall be guaranteed upon the principles and the standards contained in international documents dealing with the issues of human rights and freedoms." | |
| Namibia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: An Act to provide for the appointment of an independent and impartial Information Commissioner and Deputy Information Commissioners; to provide for the obligations of public entities; to provide for the right of access to information held by public and private entities; to provide for the promotion, creation, keeping, organisation and management of information in a form and manner that facilitates transparency, accountability, good governance and access to information; to provide for requests for access to information; to provide for internal review, appeal and judicial review of decisions on access to information; to provide for information exempt from disclosure; and to provide for incidental matters. 3. (1) When interpreting this Act, due consideration must be given to the Namibian Constitution, the general principles referred to in section 4, the objects of this Act and the relevant international instruments applicable to Namibia. 4. The right of access to information conferred by section 30 is guaranteed based on the following principles that - (a) a person has the right to access information held by public entities without delay and free of charge, except where payment of reproduction, translation and transcription is allowed under this Act or any other law; (b) a person has the right to expeditiously and inexpensively access information of private entities that may assist in the exercise or protection of any fundamental human right or freedom; (c) this Act and any other law, policy or practice creating a right of access to information is interpreted and applied on the basis of a presumption of disclosure, and that non-disclosure is permitted only under exemptions as set out in this Act or any other law; (d) information holders are subject to the authority of the Information Commissioner in all matters relating to access to information; (e) any refusal to disclose information is subject to internal review, appeal and judicial review; (f) public entities are required to proactively disclose information, unless otherwise provided in this Act or any other law; and (g) a person who discloses information in good faith is not subject to any sanction except where a relevant law provides otherwise. | The principles in s. 4 only refer to internal matters, mostly specifically guaranteed in the law and accounted for elsewhere in these indicators. The Preamble does refer to very limited external benefits but it is not entirely clear that this is covered by s. 3. |
| Nepal | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble of the Constitution: "<...> Recognizing the mandate of the NEPALI PEOPLE expressed, from time to time, since before 1951 until now, through historical struggles and people's movements for democracy, peace and progress; Having determined upon the progressive restructuring of the state in order to resolve the existing problems of the country relating to class, caste, region and gender; Expressing our full commitment to democratic norms and values including a system of competitive multiparty democratic rule, civil liberties, fundamental rights, human rights, adult franchise, periodic elections, full freedom of the press, independence of the judiciary and concepts of the rule of law; To guarantee the basic rights of the Nepali people to frame a Constitution for themselves and to participate in the free and impartial election of the Constituent Assembly in a fear-free environment; AND keeping democracy, peace, prosperity, progressive economic-social changes and sovereignty, integrity, in dependence and dignity of the country at the centre of our concerns; <...> | 0 ---- 1 - Preamble |
| Netherlands | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble of the Act: \"Whereas We have considered that, in view of Article 110 of the Constitution, it has proved desirable, in the interests of effective, democratic governance, to amend the rules concerning openness and public access to government information and to incorporate these rules in statute law wherever possible;\" | |
| Nigeria | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Explanatory Memorandum: An Act to make public records and information more freely available, provide for public access to public records and information, protect public records and information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the protection of personal privacy, protect serving public officers from adverse consequences of disclosing certain kinds of official information without authorization and establish procedures for the achievement of those purposes and; for related matters. | 1 - The Act does not contain a specific a statement of principles; the Explanatory Memorandum explains the purpose and objectives of the Act which is to make public records and information more freely available, provide for public access to public records and information, protect public records and information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the protection of personal privacy, protect serving public officers from adverse consequences for disclosing certain kinds of official information without authorization and establish procedures for the achievement of those purposes. |
| Palau | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: To create a more open and transparent government so that the people of the Republic may hold their elected government representatives accountable, and for other related purposes. 2(2) ... The President hereby finds that the people of the Republic insist upon being informed of the workings of the government so that they may retain control over the instruments of government that they have created for governance with their consent. (3) Accordingly, it is the intent of the President of the Republic that, as introduced, the provisions contained in this bill, which is modeled on the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas Islands Public Law No. 8-41 (effective Jan. 21, 1994), in providing for an open government and open access to the documents of the government the law shall be liberally interpreted, and that the provisions providing for exceptions to the open meeting requirements and open records requirements the law shall be strictly interpreted against closed meetings and the non-disclosure of records. 3. The legislature finds that having an open and transparent government is important to ensure the public is involved in the government to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the constitutional mandate for an open government. | Benefits of accountability, control over government and involvement in government are listed but this is not as comprehensive as it could be. It provides that it should be interpreted "liberally", and exceptions "strictly", but not necessarily so as to advance the benefits. |
| Philippines | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: WHEREAS, the incorporation of this right in the Constitution is a recognition of the fundamental role of free and open exchange of information in a democracy, meant to enhance transparency and accountability in government official acts, transactions, or decisions; | |
| Romania | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 1: "The free and unrestricted access of the person to any information of public interest, defined by this law, is one of the fundamental principles of the relations between persons and public authorities, in accordance with the Romanian Constitution and international documents ratified by the Romanian Parliament." | |
| Russia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 4: (Basic Principles of Providing Access to Information on the Activities of Government Bodies and Bodies of Local Self-Government): The basic principles of providing access to information on the activities of government bodies and bodies of local self-government are: a) openness and accessibility of information on the activities of government bodies and bodies of local self-government, except for the cases stipulated by federal law; b) reliability of information on the activities of government bodies and bodies of local self-government and timeliness of its granting; c) freedom of search, receipt, transmission and dissemination of information on the activities of government bodies and bodies of local self-government by any legal means; d) observance of rights of citizens to the inviolability of private life, to personal and family secrets, to protection of their honor and business reputation, and the right of organizations to the protection of their business reputation, in the granting of information on the activities of government bodies and bodies of local self-government. | The legal framework does not emphasise the benefits of the right to information |
| Rwanda | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 6: A public organ or a private body to which this Law applies shall disclose information where the public interest in disclosure outweighs the interest of not disclosing such information. In considering what constitutes the public interest, particular emphasis shall be put on the following: (1) to promote in public and private organs to which this Law applies the culture of informing the public about their activities; (2) to ensure that the expenditure of public funds is subject to effective management and oversight; (3) to promote founded public debate; (4) to keep the public regularly and adequately informed about the existence of any danger to public health or safety or to the environment; (5) to ensure that any public authority with regulatory mission properly discharges its functions. | Not where you'd expect it, but Art 6 kind of emphasizes the benefits of the right to information. |
| San Marino | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 2(1). In its relations with citizens, the Administration, in addition to complying with the criteria set forth in Article 1, shall abide by the principles of good faith and transparency, refraining from any arbitrary act and any unnecessary formalism, such as to make the procedure unnecessarily more burdensome. Regulations of 2 December 2015, No. 16, 1(2). In order to encourage widespread forms of control over the pursuit of institutional functions and the use of public resources as well as to prevent corruption and promote the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative action, transparency is understood as total accessibility to the information referred to in the following articles. | A clear statement regarding the benefits of the right to information is missing from the 5 October 2011 law that governs reactive disclosure. Article 2(1) of this legislation has some general statements about proper administrative practice, although the 2015 regulation on reactive disclosure contains a clearer statement. There is no reference to interpretation. |
| Saudi Arabia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 7.2 Principle 1: Transparency Individuals have the right to access information related to public entities' activities to enhance integrity, transparency, and accountability. | Benefits of RTI are mentioned, but broad interpretation of the regulations is not listed as a principle. |
| Serbia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1 This Law regulates the rights to access information of public importance held by public authority bodies, with the purpose of the fulfillment and protection of the public interest to know and attain a free democratic order and an open society. In order to implement the right to access information of public importance, held by public authority bodies, a Commissioner for Information of Public Importance shall be established (hereinafter: Commissioner) by this Law, as an autonomous state body, independent in fulfilling its authority. | |
| Seychelles | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: AN ACT to foster good governance through enhancing transparency, accountability, integrity in public service and administration, participation of persons in public affairs, including exposing corruption. to recognise the right of access to information envisaged in Article 28 of the Constitution and for mailers connected therewith and incidental thereto. | Statement of principles but no rule on interpretation |
| Slovenia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 2.1 "The aim of this Act is to ensure that the work of the bodies is public and open, and to enable natural and legal entities to exercise their rights to acquire information held by public authorities." | |
| South Korea | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1 The purpose of this Act is to ensure people’s rights to know and to secure people's participation in state affairs and the transparency of the operation of state affairs by prescribing matters necessary for people’s requests for the disclosure of information kept and controlled by public institutions and the obligations of public institutions to disclose such information. | Limited benefits and no interpretation. |
| Sri Lanka | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: WHEREAS the Constitution guarantees the right of access to information in Article 14A thereof and there exists a need to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public authorities by giving effect to the right of access to information and thereby promote a society in which the people of Sri Lanka would be able to more fully participate in public life through combating corruption and promoting accountability and good governance. | Preamble includes reference to wider benefits but there is no rule on interpretation. |
| Sweden | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | CONSTITUTION OF SWEDEN. The Freedom of the Press Act. Chapter 2. (On the public nature of official documents). Article 1: \"Every Swedish citizen shall be entitled to have free access to official documents, in order to encourage the free exchange of opinion and the availability of comprehensive information.\" | Limited benefits and no explicit interpretive guarantee, although this may to some extent be implicit in the fact that the law has constitutional status. |
| Switzerland | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 1. Aim and subject matter "This Act seeks to promote transparency with regard to the mandate, organisation and activities of the Administration. To this end, it contributes to informing the public by ensuring access to official documents." | |
| Tanzania | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: An Act to provide access to information; to define the scope of information which the public has the right to access; to promote transparency and accountability of information holders, and to provide for the other related matters. Section 4(d) promote routine and systematic information disclosure by information holders in compliance with the principles of accountability, transparency and public participation | Refers, in a somewhat unclear way, to limited benefits. No rule on interpretation. |
| Trinidad and Tobago | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 3. (2) The provisions of this Act shall be interpreted so as to further the object set out in subsection (1) and any discretion conferred by this Act shall be exercised as far as possible so as to facilitate and promote, promptly and at the lowest reasonable cost, the disclosure of information. | 1 - s. 3(2) |
| Tunisia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article premier - La présent loi a pour objet de garantir le droit de toute personne physique ou morale à l’accès à l’information afin de permettre : - l’obtention de l’information - le renforcement des principes de transparence et de reddition des comptes et surtout en ce qui concerne la gestion des services publics - l’amélioration de la qualité du service public et le renforcement de la confiance dans les organismes soumis aux dispositions de la présente loi, - le renforcement de la participation du public dans l’élaboration, le suivi de la mise en œuvre et l’évaluation des politiques publiques, le renforcement de recherche scientifique. | Strong set of principles but no requirement to interpret so as to give effect to them |
| Turkey | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Article 1: "The object of this law is to regulate the procedure and the basis of the right to information according to the principles of equality, impartiality and openness that are the necessities of a democratic and transparent government." | |
| Ukraine | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 1 | Article 4. Principles for Ensuring Access to Public Information 1. Access to public information according to this Law shall be carried out based on the principles of: 1) transparency and openness of the activity of subjects of public authority; 2) free obtaining and dissemination of information, except for limitations established by the law; 3) equal rights regardless of race, political, religious or other beliefs, gender, ethnic and social origin, financial standing, place of residence, language or other features. | |
| Uruguay | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Artículo 8º. (Excepciones a la información pública).- Las excepciones a la información pública serán de interpretación estricta y comprenderán aquellas definidas como secretas por la ley y las que se definan seguidamente como de carácter reservado y confidencial. | 1 - Art 8 demands that exceptions be interpreted strictly |
| Vanuatu | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | 1. The purpose of this Act is: ... (d) to promote transparency, accountability, and national development by empowering and educating the public to understand and act upon their rights to information; and (e) to increase public participation in governance. | - |
| Zambia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble, 2(2), 3(c) | |
| Zimbabwe | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | Partially | 1 | Preamble: TO additionally provide for the constitutional rights of expression, and freedom of the media; to provide further for the right of access to information held by entities in the interest of public accountability or for the exercise or protection of a right; to repeal the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act [Chapter 10:27]; and to provide for matters connected therewith. 3(c) The objects of this Act are— ... (c) to promote transparency, accountability and effective governance by taking any steps necessary to— (i) educate or inform the public of their rights in terms of this Act; and (ii) ensure that appropriate assistance is afforded to members of the public seeking to exercise their right of access to information in order to facilitate the exercise of the right. | Very weak statement of benefits and no requirement to interpret so as to give effect to them. |
| Armenia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | 4 Main principles of securing information freedom are: (a) definition of unified procedures to record, classify and maintain information; (b) insurance of freedom to seek and get information; (c) insurance of information access; (d) publicity. | Has principles but these are not benefits and no rule on interpretation. |
| Austria | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned. | N/A |
| Azerbaijan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Belgium | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Belize | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Benin | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Cyprus | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Czech Republic | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Denmark | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Fiji | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Article 4. The objectives of this Act are to - (a) give effect to the right of access to information under sections 25 and 150 of the Constitution; (b) recognise the right of a person to access information held by a public agency in accordance with the procedures prescribed in this Act; (c) ensure that a person is informed of the operations of a public agency, including, in particular, the rules and practices followed by the public agency in its dealings with members of the public; and (d) allow a person to make a request to correct or delete personal information held by a public agency in respect of the person to ensure that the information is correct, accurate, complete and not misleading. | Statement of objects, but only refers to 'internal' objects (giving effect to the right of access) rather than external benefits and no statement about interpretation. |
| France | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Gambia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Georgia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Germany | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Greece | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Hungary | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Iceland | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Iran | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Ivory Coast | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Jordan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Kazakhstan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | 4 Providing access to information is based on the following principles: (1) legality; (2) openness and transparency of the activity of information holders; (3) truthfulness and completeness; (4) relevance and timeliness; (5) equal access to information; (6) nondisclosure of state secrets and other types of secrets protected by law; (7) protection of private life, personal and family secrets; (8) respect for rights and legal interests of individuals and legal entities. | |
| Kenya | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | 3 The object and purpose of this Act is to (a) give effect to the right of access to information by citizens as provided under Article 35 of the Constitution; (b) provide a framework for public entities and private bodies to proactively disclose information that they hold and to provide information on request in line with the constitutional principles; (c) provide a framework to facilitate access to information held by private bodies in compliance with any right protected by the Constitution and any other law; (d) promote routine and systematic information disclosure by public entities and private bodies on constitutional principles relating to accountability, transparency and public participation and access to information; (e) provide for the protection of persons who disclose information of public interest in good faith; and (f) provide a framework to facilitate public education on the right to access information under this Act. | |
| Latvia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Lebanon | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | No statement of benefits and no rule on interpretation. |
| Liechtenstein | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | It states the right to information and access to records. Article 14 states that authorities report information of a public interest as long as it's not opposed to predominantly public or private interests. | |
| Luxembourg | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Malta | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned. | |
| Monaco | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Morocco | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Niger | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned. | |
| North Macedonia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned. | |
| Paraguay | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | |
| Peru | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | No statement of principles. |
| Poland | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Constitution Article 61(3): Limitations upon the rights referred to in paras. 1 and 2 above, may be imposed by statute solely to protect freedoms and rights of other persons and economic subjects, public order, security or important economic interests of the State. | Article 61.3 of the Constitution already places limits to access. |
| Portugal | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Qatar | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned | |
| Republic of Belarus | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Article 4. Principles of legal regulation of information relations Legal regulation of information relations shall be based on the following principles: • freedom of search, receipt, transmission, collection, processing, accumulation, storage, dissemination and (or) provision of information, as well as use of information; • establishment of restrictions on dissemination and (or) provision of information only by legislative acts of the Republic of Belarus; | |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | |
| Sierra Leone | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | ||
| Slovakia | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Spain | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | La ley no contiene una declaración de principios que llame a una interpretación amplia del derecho de acceso a la información ni menciona los beneficios derivados del derecho de acceso a la información. |
| Sudan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| Thailand | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned. |
| Togo | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| United Kingdom | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A | Not mentioned |
| United States | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | Not mentioned. | |
| Uzbekistan | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | 2014 Law on Activities of State Bodies: 1. The main objectives of this Law are: …. (3) increasing the responsibility of public authorities and administration and their officials for decisions made | Very limited reference in 2014 Law to benefits. |
| Vietnam | The legal framework contains a specific statement of principles calling for a broad interpretation of the RTI law. The legal framework emphasises the benefits of the right to information. | One point for each characteristic. | 2 | NO | 0 | N/A |
