Non-government organisations play a critical role in keeping government’s accountable and transparent, says Attorney General Graham Leung.
While opening the weeklong Pacific and Fiji Right to Information Workshop in Suva today, Mr Leung said NGOs also assist in extending government’s services through their various networks.
“The workshop’s agenda is thoughtfully designed to address the key aspects of Right to Information, from global and relevant Pacific trends to international standards and what makes a strong and successful RTI Act,” he said.
“We will delve into the practicalities of making and processing requests, understanding exceptions, and navigating appeals and oversight mechanisms.
“These sessions will equip us with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively operationalize the law and ensure that it serves its intended purpose.”
He said workshop participants will also share good practices in terms of specific legal provisions ensuring that access to public information involves all citizens, in particular those who might incur an increased risk of marginalization or discrimination in certain contexts, based on factors such as sex and gender, marital status, age, race, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic status, education and so on.
“The support of development partners, such as UNESCO and the Fiji Council of Social Services, is invaluable.
“Their commitment to promoting access to information especially their home-grown Kacivaka RTI tool which will be highlighted in this Workshop, and their expertise in facilitating such workshops are instrumental in driving progress.
“We are grateful for their contributions and look forward to their continued partnership.”
The weeklong workshop brings together regional government officials to discuss RTI Acts and each country’s effort to enact the legislation.
