Information and Governance: the role of public access
27 October – 1 November 2002
London
Event 0231
Public to access information held by government is essential for the
protection of basic human rights, for the rule of law and for efficient
public administration. Access to information is rapidly becoming a
fundamental component of new government policy and strategies to combat
corruption. However, in practice, what does this mean? What information do
citizens want? Can they obtain it easily and, if so, how? Do new
approaches for disseminating information through electronic government
initiatives work? Is Freedom of Information (FOI) legislation the answer?
This seminar aims to:
 influence the policy debate on access to information
 identify ways of lowering barriers to participation in a democracy
 examine the role of civil society in campaigning for access.
Participants should gain a broader perspective through discussion,
interactive sessions and study visits. The current situation in the United
Kingdom will provide a case study for examining how the public accesses, or
is prevented from accessing, government information. An initiative from
the Philippines will offer insight into one way civil society can campaign
for greater access.
International Networking Events
The British Council
1 Beaumont Place
Oxford OX1 2PJ
United Kingdom
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