The right to access information 2013, para. 55

Paragraph
Paragraph text
In a number of instances, States have continued to limit access to information concerning action carried out under previous regimes, even when they took place many years before. In the absence of detailed justification, allegations that information regarding such past violations can affect national security have little credibility. The Special Rapporteur considers that it is difficult to justify a continuing public interest in imposing limitations to information from former regimes. As noted, authorities in countries undergoing a process of transitional justice have a particular obligation to proactively ensure the preservation and dissemination of information on serious violations of human rights and humanitarian law that took place in the past.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
  • Civil & Political Rights
  • Governance & Rule of Law
  • Humanitarian
Person(s) affected
  • All
Year
2013
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
SR Freedom of Opinion, Report to the UNGA (2013), A/68/362, para. 55.
Paragraph number
55