The Draft Organic Law on the Right to Access Information (the Draft Law) represents a significant step forward in ensuing that all persons in Tunisia will be able to achieve their right to information. This measure will have a positive effect on both the public and the government as its successful implementation will increase accountability, reduce corruption and improve public services.
ARTICLE 19 would like to recommend some further areas where the Draft Law can be strengthened to better ensure that this goal is achieved. The key areas relate to expanding the duty on public bodies to proactively publish information; clarifying the exemptions and ensuring strong harm and public interest tests; ensuing the Authority is independent; and strengthening sanctions.