Carter: Make freedom of information a global right

Every country should pass a freedom of information law to promote transparency, help fight corruption and ensure clean elections, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter said on Thursday.

More than 50 countries including China, Uganda and Chile have passed access to information laws in the last decade, part of a movement to adopt the principle and give citizens access to information such as on the sources of campaign funds.

The principle was essential even though it may appear more nebulous than human or democratic rights and a less important priority for developing countries than health or economic empowerment, he said.

~ read on... ~