(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is a 3 November 2004 ARTICLE 19 press release: ARTICLE 19 calls on Azerbaijani authorities to adopt a law on Freedom of Information ARTICLE 19, the Global Campaign for Free Expression, is deeply concerned about the delay of the Azerbaijani authorities in adopting a comprehensive Law on Freedom of Information. […]
(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is a 3 November 2004 ARTICLE 19 press release:
ARTICLE 19 calls on Azerbaijani authorities to adopt a law on Freedom of Information
ARTICLE 19, the Global Campaign for Free Expression, is deeply concerned about the delay of the Azerbaijani authorities in adopting a comprehensive Law on Freedom of Information.
In late May 2004, ARTICLE 19 issued a statement congratulating the Azerbaijani government on their efforts to develop freedom of information legislation and in particular for engaging in an open and inclusive process involving independent experts and civil society.
Now, ARTICLE 19 is alarmed that the authorities seem to have brought the process to a halt. Despite earlier assurances by government officials, the draft law has not been submitted for its second reading to parliament. Neither have some crucial recommendations by legal experts for improvements in the draft (including by ARTICLE 19) been taken into account. In fact, the adoption of an over-restrictive State Secrets Law in autumn 2004 has created regulations adverse to freedom of information. Disagreements among civil society groups in Azerbaijan, resulting in the preparation of an alternative draft law, seem to have offered a pretext for the authorities to stall the initiative.
The public’s right to know is a fundamental principle of democracy. Access to information allows for greater public participation in policy debate. It leads to improved government policies and decision-making processes, and raises public trust in the administration. It also helps expose wrongdoing and corruption. Without access to information there can be no government accountability and transparency.
We call upon the Azerbaijani authorities to:
– Immediately schedule the second reading of the official draft law on Freedom of Information;
– Bring the Freedom of Information draft law in line with established international standards, and in particular, to
— Narrow the exceptions regime in line with recommendations provided by international experts, and
— Provide for an independent information commission or commissioner responsible for overseeing the implementation and operation of the Law;
– Adopt the Freedom of Information law as soon as possible;
– Design a strategy and action plan for the implementation of the freedom of information law.
