Public Information Act (Estonia)
Overview
The Public Information Act is an Estonian law that ensures government transparency and the public’s right to access information. It requires public institutions to share information openly, making it easier for citizens to stay informed and hold authorities accountable.
Key Provisions
1. Right to Access Information – Everyone has the right to request and receive information held by public institutions, unless the law restricts it (e.g., for privacy or security reasons).
2. Active Disclosure – Public authorities must proactively publish important information, such as decisions, policies, and reports, on their websites or official channels.
3. Timely Responses – When someone requests information, the institution must respond within 5 working days. In complex cases, they may extend this to 30 days, but must notify the requester.
4. Fees – Most information is free, but agencies may charge a small fee for processing large or complex requests.
5. Exceptions – Some information may be withheld if it affects national security, personal privacy, or business secrets.
Important Dates
- The law was originally passed in 2000 and has been updated over time.
- The latest consolidated version (as of 2024) includes amendments to improve digital access and transparency.
Based on the Official Document
This explanation is a simplified summary of the Public Information Act (Estonia). For the full legal text, refer to the official document here:
https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/ee/503012019004/consolide/current