Law of the Republic of Lithuania on the Right to Receive Information from State and Municipal Institutions and Bodies (No VIII-1524, amended by Law No XIII-1590)
Overview
This law ensures that everyone in Lithuania has the right to access information held by state and municipal institutions. It promotes transparency, accountability, and equal access to public information, making it easier for citizens, including people with disabilities, to request and receive official data.
Key Provisions in Simple Language
1. Right to Information – Any person can request information from government bodies, and these institutions must provide it unless there’s a legally valid reason to withhold it (e.g., national security or privacy concerns) 3.
2. Accessibility Requirements – Public institutions must make information available in formats that are accessible to people with disabilities, such as:
- Text-to-speech compatibility
- Adjustable font sizes and high-contrast options
- Alternative formats (e.g., Braille, audio) upon request 13.
3. Online Transparency – Government websites must publish key information openly, including:
- Laws and regulations
- Public institution activities
- Budget and spending reports 3.
4. Response Deadlines – Institutions must respond to information requests within 10 working days. If more time is needed, they must notify the requester 3.
5. Exceptions – Some information can be restricted, but institutions must explain why in writing 3.
6 Complaints & Appeals – If a request is denied, individuals can appeal the decision to a higher authority or court 3.
Important Dates
- Originally enacted as Law No. VIII-1524.
- Amended by Law No. XIII-1590 to strengthen accessibility and transparency rules.
- Compliance deadlines vary, but public institutions must continuously meet these requirements 3.
Why This Matters
This law helps ensure that government actions are transparent and that all citizens, including those with disabilities, can access essential information. It aligns with broader EU accessibility laws like the Web Accessibility Directive (WAD) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which take full effect in June 202512.
This explanation is based on the official document:
Reference Link