Customising Freedom of Information Law Reform in South Pacific Micro-States

Abstract

This article highlights the importance of adopting a pluralist approach to developing freedom of information (FOI) schemes within specific states in an age of ‘adopter intensification’. The limitations of imposing universal ‘off the shelf’ schemes without addressing multifaceted and unique state requirements are highlighted. The South Pacific Region is utilised as an example that demonstrates adoption is merely the initial and simplest step in an ongoing process of adaption and implementation. Comprehension of the ongoing commitment required in implementing effective FOI schemes should exist prior to legislative conception. Draft schemes must consider not only the supply and demand element of FOI within specific states, but also their broader macro- and micro-level intricacies. Vanuatu and Tonga are used as examples to demonstrate that even where a pluralist and staged approach is undertaken progress can still be slow and problematic. 

Key Words:

• South Pacific
• Tonga
• freedom of information
• secrecy
• public sector transparency

Notes

1. Trans-national secrecy sits outside the scope of this paper.

2. Charmaine Rodrigues subsequently worked with the UNDP in Suva and played a critical role in giving FOI a high priority in UNDP’s work in the South Pacific between 2007 and 2012.

3. EDUCO, ‘Proposal for support to the government of Ethiopia on freedom of information legislation’, submitted to the UK Department for International Development 13 November 2002. Rick Snell was lead consultant and main author of the consultancy bid.