Institutional Framework on the Right to Information in Selected Jurisdictions

Abstract

Knowledge thrives on access to information. Recognizing this, the United Nations in 1945 adopted the Freedom of Information as a fundamental human right to which it is consecrated. Till date, 119 countries have enacted laws promoting access to information. However, the guarantee of the right to know goes beyond the passing of legislation to the establishment of capable implementing and enforcing institutions with clearly defined responsibilities to ensure that the laws are put into practice. This paper explores the institutional framework on the right to information in some jurisdictions—Nigeria, South Africa, Mexico and Hungary. It examines the implementing and enforcement models established in these jurisdictions. It finds that though each model has its advantages and disadvantages, the rate of success in the jurisdictions is largely influenced by local circumstances. It recommends that jurisdictions that are not making much progress in their enforcement efforts should reevaluate their design and make necessary adjustments, fully taking local circumstances and what works and what does not work for them into consideration; essentially the best practices.