How Right to Information Empowers Citizens and Strengthens Democracy
In a democracy, citizens have the right not only to vote, but also to know how public institutions function, how decisions are made, how public resources are used, and how those entrusted with public office exercise their responsibilities. Access to information is therefore more than an administrative convenience. It is an essential part of transparency, accountability and meaningful citizenship.
What information can citizens request? Which public bodies are required to provide it? What are the limits and exemptions? What can a citizen do when information is withheld or access is denied? And how can access to information contribute to better governance and stronger public institutions?
This session will explore the Right to Information as a tool for citizen empowerment, examining its constitutional foundations, practical mechanisms and potential to promote transparency, expose gaps in governance and strengthen democratic accountability.
About the Panelists:
- Shoaib Ahmad Siddiqui
(Chief Information Commissioner, Pakistan Information Commission) - Muhammad Aftab Alam
(CEO, IRADA Foundation for Research and Advocacy; Law and Policy Expert) - Matiullah Jan
(Senior Investigative Journalist, Court Reporter) - Saddia Mazhar
(Investigative Journalist, RTI Activist — Moderator)
This session is free and open to all. Just visit the venue to attend it.
The Black Hole
Plot 5H, Street 100, G-11/3, Islamabad.
Click here for Google Maps Location