Freedom of Information Center of Armenia.

The Freedom of Information Advocates Network (FOIAnet) launched a major global analysis of the development of the right to information (RTI) movement, broken down by region. The publication follows FOIAnet’s celebration of its 10th anniversary on International Right to Know Day, 28 September 2012.

The Update, which was co-authored by different human rights advocates for each of the seven regions it covers, presents the very different challenges, developments and experiences of civil society advocates for RTI in each region of the world. The Update also describes the key struggles that have taken place in each region, successes and failures, and lessons learned, along with a selection of case studies that illustrate how RTI has been promoted within each region.

“This is the very first time FOIAnet has produced a major publication,” said Toby Mendel, Chair of FOIAnet. This is a wonderful way to build on our anniversary 10-10-10 Statement: Achievements, Challenges and Goals on the 10th Anniversary of the Freedom of Information Advocates Network (FOIAnet).”

A key goal of the Update is to foster a better understanding among FOIAnet’s members and others about civil society developments regarding RTI in the different regions of the world. The Update also aims to help RTI advocates by sharing information about successful strategies for tackling challenges, to foster better understanding and to stimulate international dialogue among the different regions, and to draw attention to the global nature of the RTI movement so as to further strengthen it.

Lydia Medland, lead editor of the report, said, “The report shows that advocates still have a long way to go to see their goal achieved of a universal right to information, however, it also clearly transmits the strength of the movement and their ability to effectively confront obstacles to change.”

The Report is available here: Global Right to Information Update