24 SEPTEMBER 2008
Three New Reports Highlight Need for Right to Know Laws

The value of having legal environments supportive of the right to know, free expression and an independent media is highlighted in several reports, one by the World Bank, another funded by the U.S. State Department, and a third by the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative.

The CHRI study celebrates the practical benefits of right-to-know laws, highlighting many stories of positive outcomes.

Our Rights, Our Information collects 15 case studies from across the globe that “testify to the power of right to information laws in bringing about the practical realisation of human rights for everyday people,” according to CHRI.

“Time and time again, these stories demonstrate how access to information has provided the means for people to demand respect for their rights, from the right to food, health care and education, to the right to be free from gender discrimination, torture and inhuman treatment,” CHRI said.

One case study follows the success of a group in Slovakia in obtaining information about deforestation that generated pressure for a new forest management law and other reforms, including more public participation and the release of more information.

Other chapters in the book highlight the benefits of the right to information, the international human rights framework, and national right to information laws.

Bank Report Relates Media and Development

Broadcasting, Voice, and Accountability: A Public Interest Approach to Policy, Law, and Regulation, a World Bank project, is a multi-author, book-length treatment that examines the relationship of the media to governance and development. The report also explores “the enabling environment for the media,” with special emphasis on “promoting plural and independent broadcasting."

The book is intended as a “toolkit,” according to its authors, who spoke at a World Bank event, and includes an extensive bibliography.  An epilogue sketches a research agenda and some policy prescriptions.

Empowering Independent Media

“Empowering Independent Media” explores ways to educate and support the media internationally, emphasizing the need for more funding, professional development, education, legal assistance, sustainability, and media literacy. It was done by the Center for International Media Assistance at the National Endowment for Democracy.

By Toby McIntosh

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