Chapter 4 dives into the essential roles of stakeholders in the realm of Right to Information (RTI), the various methods employed by public authorities to share information, and the RTI tools available worldwide. By the end of this chapter, readers should understand the significant roles stakeholders play in RTI, recognize the diverse mediums for information dissemination by public authorities, and be familiar with the global tools of RTI.

Public authorities are defined broadly to include not just government bodies but also non-government organizations (NGOs), community members, media, and even neighboring businesses among others. These entities have their own objectives and make decisions that impact society at large. They are also seen as integral in facilitating or being affected by changes and decisions, making their involvement crucial in RTI processes.

The chapter emphasizes the importance of including public authorities in RTI matters, outlining that their involvement allows for a more connected government and public, helps manage risks associated with policy and law changes, ensures better prioritization of societal needs, and enhances accountability and transparency. For instance, an organization focused on sustainability could assist in enacting policies for environmental protection, highlighting how different public authorities play unique roles in society’s functioning.

For public authorities to practice transparency and accountability effectively, several strategies are suggested. These include clearly defining and communicating objectives, sharing achievements, being accessible, providing information promptly, and responding to feedback without defensiveness. Employing local languages and engaging in dialogue sessions, like “Talanoa” in Fiji, are highlighted as practices that ensure transparency and accountability, particularly in culturally diverse regions.

An example from Fiji showcases how public authorities, like the Fiji Roads Authority and the Ministry of Transport, use various reports and summaries to keep the public informed about their operations, budgets, and plans. This transparency is critical in fostering trust between the public and the authorities.

The chapter also explores the different channels through which public authorities disseminate information, from traditional media like newspapers and TV to digital platforms such as websites, dedicated apps, social media, and government portals. Each channel’s role in ensuring information reaches citizens effectively is discussed, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and updated information.

Activities included prompt readers to explore the information dissemination practices in their country, encouraging them to evaluate the effectiveness of these practices and suggest improvements. This interactive approach helps readers apply the chapter’s concepts to their local context.

Moreover, the chapter introduces the various channels through which citizens can request information, including organization websites, emails, request portals, and more. This section aims to make readers aware of the options available to them for accessing information.

Highlighting RTI request portals from countries like Canada, New Zealand, India, and Vanuatu, the chapter provides a practical look at how different nations facilitate RTI requests. Readers are encouraged to explore these portals and assess their user-friendliness, language accessibility, and overall process.

Lastly, the chapter touches on RTI advocacy, mentioning countries and organizations that have developed RTI courses, certifications, and training modules. This segment underscores the importance of educating citizens on RTI to empower them in their interactions with public authorities.

In summary, Chapter 4 offers a comprehensive look at the ecosystem of RTI, highlighting the critical role of stakeholders, the methods of information dissemination, and the tools available to support RTI globally. Through examples and activities, readers are encouraged to engage deeply with the material, fostering a better understanding of how RTI functions in various contexts.

Duration: 30 Hours

Chapter 5 focuses on the significance and progress of the Right to Information (RTI) in the South Pacific, aiming to equip participants with a clear understanding of RTI’s current status, the procedures for information retrieval, and ongoing advocacy efforts for RTI awareness in the region.

The discussion begins by recognizing RTI as a crucial development over the last three decades, emphasizing its importance in fostering government transparency, accountability, and public trust. It points out that while RTI legislation has been successfully adopted by 129 countries globally, including Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) show varied levels of development and implementation of RTI laws. The necessity for not just the adoption but effective implementation of these laws, coupled with public awareness and regular reviews, is highlighted as essential for meaningful information dissemination and sustainable development.

The unique position of PICs, characterized by rich natural resources, cultural diversity, and increasing global integration, particularly through tourism, is discussed. The enactment and execution of RTI laws are emphasized as critical to supporting regional initiatives like the UN Pacific Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite some PICs having specific RTI legislation or constitutional provisions for information rights, there’s an acknowledgment of the differing levels of implementation and citizen engagement across the South Pacific. Initiatives aimed at increasing digitalization and improving literacy and digital literacy within the region are also mentioned.

Interactive activities encourage readers to examine the presence and effectiveness of RTI laws in their countries, urging a deeper engagement with the topic and reflection on the necessity of RTI laws. By looking into how information can be obtained and the efforts towards RTI advocacy and awareness, participants are guided to think about how RTI can be more effectively implemented and utilized in their own contexts.

An overview of a collaborative RTI project between UNDP and USP, funded by UK Aid, details its phases aimed at raising RTI awareness in the South Pacific and developing new digital tools for information dissemination. This project focuses on creating awareness, analyzing RTI practices in selected countries, and developing tools like an e-course, a mobile app, and a Design Thinking manual specifically for the South Pacific context.

The outcomes from RTI workshops and the developed tools are detailed, showcasing demographics, survey results, and impactful stories from participants. Success stories from Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu illustrate how RTI awareness and tools have not only facilitated better access to information but also supported citizens in their personal and professional endeavors.

Concluding activities prompt participants to reflect on their learning, evaluate the work done by the RTI team and the developed tools, and consider their own views on RTI. Participants are encouraged to suggest ideas for further awareness and information dissemination and provide feedback on the RTI Pacific app, aiming to consolidate the knowledge gained and inspire continued engagement with RTI concepts and practices.

This chapter offers a comprehensive exploration of RTI’s role  and challenges in the South Pacific, blending discussions, interactive activities, and examples to provide a deep understanding of RTI’s significance and encourage active participation in promoting transparency and accountability in the community.

Duration: 30 Hours

This module presents six case studies from the South Pacific, drawing from the work and real scenarios documented by UNDP, UNODC, and RTI workshops. These case studies are designed to offer a glimpse into the diverse challenges and issues faced by people in the South Pacific, emphasizing the crucial role of the Right to Information (RTI) in addressing these concerns.

By engaging with these case studies, participants are expected to understand the complexity of issues in the South Pacific, synthesize the problems outlined, and critically evaluate the situations presented. The module not only aims to enhance awareness of RTI’s significance but also to encourage active discussion on feasible solutions and strategies to overcome the challenges highlighted.

Each case study delves into specific scenarios reflecting the obstacles and dilemmas encountered by individuals and communities, illustrating the potential impact of RTI laws and awareness in mitigating these issues. For instance, one case study might explore the procedural bottlenecks and lack of transparency in government funding allocations, while another may address the challenges of environmental conservation amidst economic development pressures.

Participants are prompted to critically analyze the problems faced by the people of Tuvalu, reflecting on the role of government and citizens in navigating these challenges. They’re encouraged to research the status of RTI in Tuvalu and contemplate how heightened awareness of RTI could serve as a tool for empowerment and change.

Another case study from the Solomon Islands sheds light on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the controversies surrounding its management and allocation. It narrates the efforts of a new Permanent Secretary to reform the fund’s governance, aiming to instill transparency, accountability, and equitable development across constituencies. This case study prompts participants to consider the transformative potential of RTI legislation and awareness in promoting fair and transparent governance.

The module is structured to ensure that participants can only proceed to subsequent case studies upon answering questions and engaging in discussions based on the current case. This interactive approach fosters a deeper understanding and engagement with the material, encouraging participants to apply critical thinking and propose informed solutions.

As participants navigate through the case studies, they’re invited to reflect on the similarities and differences in challenges faced across different South Pacific countries. They’re encouraged to draw parallels to their own countries’ contexts, fostering a regional perspective on the importance of RTI in fostering democratic governance, transparency, and public empowerment.

This educational journey through the case studies from the South Pacific underscores the multifaceted nature of RTI and its pivotal role in addressing governance issues, environmental challenges, and socio-economic disparities in the region. Through critical analysis and discussion, participants are guided to appreciate the transformative power of informed citizenship and proactive governance in shaping the future of the South Pacific.

Duration: 30 Hours