As the world commemorated the International Day for Universal Access to Information, South Africa’s Information Regulator marked a major milestone: 25 years of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). The Regulator hosted a Reform to Information Law Dialogue in Durban to reflect on a quarter-century of PAIA, celebrate its impact and chart its future in the digital age.
Part-time Member Mfana Gwala told public- and private-sector participants that access to information is a cornerstone of democracy, sustainable development and human rights. The dialogue examined how PAIA has worked over the past 25 years, identified areas for improvement and explored how the law can be adapted to the realities of online platforms, open data and algorithmic decision-making.
Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel reminded delegates that access to information laws have become the backbone of open, democratic societies worldwide. “Today we gather to celebrate a principle that lies at the heart of every thriving democracy, every empowered community and every accountable institution: the universal right to access information. In today’s digital age this right lives and breathes online. Algorithmic transparency and accountability are vital, especially when these technologies are used by public institutions,” he said.
This year’s theme, “Reflecting on 25 Years of the Access to Information Law and Making It Fit for Purpose in the Digital Age,” aligned with the global call to update information laws to keep pace with technological change.
Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission Reverend Chris Nissen emphasised that the right to information empowers individuals, communities and society at large to participate fully in democracy. “Lack of access to information results in disempowerment, poor decision-making, missed opportunities and weakened democratic processes. We commend the Information Regulator under the leadership of Adv. Pansy Tlakula for championing transparency through its mandate,” he said.
Participants engaged in panel discussions on topics such as “Access to Online Information in the Digital Age” and “Denied and Delayed Access to Information and How It Jeopardises the Realisation of Rights.” The recommendations recorded at the dialogue will guide the Regulator as it embarks on reforming PAIA to strengthen South Africans’ constitutional right of access to information for the next 25 years and beyond.
