Global regime for access to public information: Brazil’s participation

Abstract

This paper studies the international movement for universal access to information; essentially, beginning with an analysis of improving information technology and democracy. Furthermore, integrating these elements creates universal access to data and information, which incorporates specific laws, permitting a more transparent State – therefore helping to fight against government corruption. In light of international laws about access to information and with growing internal and external pressures, Brazil promulgated its Access to Information Law n. 12.557/11. Moreover, the objective of this paper is (I) to study Brazilian participation in the said context, from comparing countries that embrace this movement; (II) analyze if the creation of this legislation is really a societal advance and (III) answer how it is possible for countries to implement measures that helps promote access to information. The method utilized is literature review, study of legislation and adoption of internet research. Finally, this study concluded that this Brazilian law is an important step towards international improvements. Consequentially,establishing for other countries possible improvements in their own internal legislation, giving rise to a global trend of universal access to information and with this, fulfilling demands for transparency and less corrupt States.