FoI in Yemen

FoI in Yemen

Amid accusations of government suppression of the media, a new bill that promotes freedom of information was presented to lawyers, journalists and representatives of local and international non-government organizations on Thursday.

The bill says that every person in Yemen has the right to access to information from every government body.

It aims to ensure citizens' rights to timely access to information, enhance government transparency, expand opportunities for public participation in government, and help society develop its capabilities.

The bill, called the "Right of Access to Information," was presented by the Parliament's Media and Culture Committee, The International Research & Exchanges Board and the Yemeni Parliamentarians Against Corruption.

It requires the establishment of a commission for information. It also directs every ministry, government and military body, judiciary and prosecution to create an office of information with specialized employees.

MPs introduce freedom of information bill (Yemen Times, 29 July 2009)