Information Commissioner Partners with UNDP to Boost State Transparency and Information Access

The Information Commissioner's Office is collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to help state institutions overcome systemic hurdles in implementing the Right to Information (RTI) Act. This partnership aims to streamline how government bodies manage and disclose data, ensuring that transparency becomes a practical reality rather than just a legal requirement. In a statement released to mark the International Day for Universal Access to Information, the office revealed a steady rise in public demand for transparency. This year alone, the Commission has received 745 cases, successfully concluding over 260. Despite operating with a lean staff, the office manages an average of four new submissions every day. However, the Commission cautioned that a rising number of requests is not necessarily a victory for transparency. True progress, the office argued, would be characterized by "proactive disclosure," where state institutions publish information voluntarily. This shift would empower citizens to find data independently and significantly reduce the administrative burden on both the public and government agencies. Access to information remains a cornerstone in the fight against corruption and the construction of a transparent state. While the Commission acknowledges that some institutions struggle to meet their obligations due to technical or resource-based difficulties, it maintains that providing information is a critical responsibility. Through the UNDP development programme, the Commission is currently exploring support mechanisms and strategic measures to help these institutions bridge the gap between legislative requirements and operational capacity. The office concluded by emphasizing that the right to seek and obtain information must transcend the written words of the Constitution and legislation. It asserted that the practical application of these rights is essential for shaping a democratic future and fostering a peaceful, secure society in the Maldives.