Research Proposal

Lack of Transparency and Freedom of Information in Pakistan: An analysis of government’s functioning and realistic policy options for reform

Policy Paper

1. Introduction

1.1. Context;

1.2. Policy problem;

1.3. Methodology;

1.4. Limitations of the policy paper;

1.5. Structure of policy paper.

2. State of Transparency and Access to Information

2.1. Proactive disclosure;

2.2. Role of media;

2.3. Citizens direct access to information;

2.4. Open governance.

3. Cost of Lack of Transparency and Access to Information

3.1. Violation of a recognized human right;

3.2. Limited access of media to information for reporting and investigative journalism;

3.3. Corruption and inefficiencies in public organizations remain hidden from public view and scruitiny;

3.4. Uninformed citizens – unprepared to make informed choices in market or political life;

3.5. Limited possibilities for democratice accountability;

3.6. Restricted space for public participation in policy making;

3.7. Citizens effectively excluded from participation in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating development projects;

3.8. Non-responsive governance;

3.9. Difficulties faced by government officials in their routine work.

4. Factors Obstructing Transparency and Access to Information

4.1. Inefficient maintenance/ non-indexation of public records;

4.2. Lack of computerization / networking in public departments;

4.3. Weak legal and institutional framework;

4.4. Obstructuctive procedures;

4.5. Attitudes that promote secrecy and obstruct citizens’ access to information;

4.6. Citizens’ demand for transparency and access to information not very well-articulated;

4.7. Weak civil society initiatives for transparency and access to information.

5. Policy Options

5.1. Available policy options;

5.2. Cost / benefit analysis of available policy options;

5.3. Most viable options.

6. Conclusions and Recommendations