Global Sourcebook on Right to Information

Global Sourcebook on Right to Information is a complete reference book on the subject of freedom of information as a part of basic human rights. This is a very timely publication which will help and fulfil the national, regional and global aspirations in areas of access to information, freedom of expression and information Act, 2005 is covered in its totality, supported by Information Act, 2002, and the Freedom of Information Bill, 2000. Model templates, training manuals and informations required to be published by various government agencies under the RTI Act are given. Similarly, other covenant national documents or acts focusing on right to information are presented, such as Constitution of India, Official Secrets Act, Atomic Energy Act, medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, Indian Post Office Bill, RBI Act, Customs Act, Customs Tariff Act and Customs Valuations Rules. At the federal state level, select RTI Acts of Delhi, Goa, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are presented. However, at the international level, various initiatives and recommended standards are covered. Major international declarations and conventions relevant to scope of human rights are covered. Similarly, Important regional organizations’ reports and freedom of expressions are presented. The sourcebook also gives a comparative study of the American Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act. For further indepth understanding of globally ongoing national initiatives, the laws, policies and papers on RTI of Commonwealth member states are discussed briefly. In sum, this book provides the most comprehensive coverage and serves the purpose of being the first global sourcebook on Right to Information. No doubt, in coming future, this particular 2005 RTI would change many things in India, including people’s perceptions about government agencies and their attitudes. The significance of access to information will be realized in very many sectors and streams of life and livelihood.