PURPOSE

The Right to Information Act ensures that citizens can request public information from the government, civil society organisations, and private entities. It is designed to ensure a high level of accountability and transparency in both public and private services, and it is a key tool to establish equality and allow citizens to hold publically funded institutions accountable for their actions.

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THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION:

The RTI Act has been described as a “milestone in the legal history of Bangladesh”. It enshrines in law, for the first time, people’s right to obtain information from a number of sources:

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1. Executive and legislative branches of government (including government ministries)

2. Private organisations that receive government or foreign funding, including NGOs, international organisations, and other private bodies

 

To learn more about laws, enactments, and the status of RTI activities, visit the Information Commission website (contents may be in Bengali).

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P4D's IMPACT

Platforms for Dialogue has promoted the Right to Information at the grassroots CSO level through Social Action Projects and community forums. We have implemented trainings for CSO to learn more about RTI and promote the tool to their communities, as well as organised trainings for government officials on how to properly serve citizens requesting information through this platform.

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We have also developed social media campaigns to promote the use of social accountability tools to the public in our 21 project districts, including the Right to Information Act, through graphics, infographics, and videos. This content is helping millions learn about the Right to Information and how it can benefit their communities.

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In partnership with the Cabinet Division, P4D also designed and produced public service announcements to help citizens understand what the Right to Information is, how it works, and why it is important. Click on the link below to view the full video.