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International News

Ukraine: Access to Information Law Adopted

January 01, 2011 posted by Steve Brownstein

The Ukrainian parliament has adopted an Access to Information Law following a campaign by ARTICLE 19 and partners over the past two years.

  ARTICLE 19 welcomes the new law, adopted by a large parliamentary majority, and will continue to check that it is properly implemented to improve transparency and the free flow of information in the country.

  “We are delighted that after a sustained campaign Ukraine has adopted a law to realise the people’s right to information. Once properly implemented, the Access to Information Law will increase transparency, good governance, efficiency and participation in public affairs,” says Dr Agnès Callamard, ARTICLE 19 Executive Director.

  “The new law contains several progressive provisions supported by ARTICLE 19, including a broad definition of public information, and a legal responsibility of holders of information who fail to publish,” Callamard continued.

  The new law also requires public bodies to promote open government and publish certain types of information without any individual request. The regime of limitations adequately limits non-disclosure only to situations in which the revelation of such information risks more harm than benefit to the public. Disclosure of information on wrongdoings or information concerning a serious threat to people’s health and safety or to the environment are protected too.

  The law will go into effect after being signed by the President Yanukovych who has already expressed his intention to give assent.