The Right to Information Commission of Ghana participated in the 2025 International Conference for Information Commissioners (ICIC) held from June 23rd to June 25th, 2025, in Berlin, Germany. This significant global gathering brought together Information Commissioners and professionals from across the world to exchange ideas, best practices and innovations related to the promotion and protection of the right of access to information. The purpose of the ICIC is to enhance transparency, accountability and citizen engagement through effective information governance practices.
Representing the Commission at this year’s conference were Ms. Genevieve Shirley Lartey, the Executive Secretary and Nana Kwame Duah, Member of the Governing Board. Their participation underscored Ghanaโs commitment to the principles of openness and accountability which are essential to democratic governance. The conference served as a valuable platform for sharing Ghana’s experiences and challenges in implementing effective right to information systems, while fostering collaborative solutions to common issues among participating countries.
During the conference, the Commission presented a comprehensive report on its successful collaboration with UNESCO, which culminated in Ghana hosting the 2024 International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI). This collaboration focused not only on advocacy for the right to information but also on raising awareness among individuals and institutions about the significance of universal access to information as a fundamental human right.
The Commission also highlighted its extensive stakeholder engagement efforts particularly in the development of the Legislative Instrument (LI) governing the implementation of the Right to Information Act. These collaborative processes are essential to ensuring that Ghanaโs legal framework aligns with international standards while being responsive to the needs of the Ghanaian public.
Furthermore, the Commission shared updates on its public sensitization initiatives, including targeted outreach to churches and mosques. These engagement activities play a critical role in promoting a culture of information-sharing and transparency within communities, encouraging citizens to actively exercise their right to access information.
The report also showcased recent study visits to the Right to Information Commission of Ghana by several notable institutions, including the Freedom of Information Office of the Philippines, representatives from the Open Government Partnership, the Ministry of Information of Namibia and a group of research students from Cambridge University. These visits fostered mutual learning and capacity building, providing opportunities to exchange knowledge and improve institutional practices. Ghanaโs participation in the 2025 ICIC exemplifies the countryโs sustained commitment to transparency, accountability and good governance.
It highlighted the critical role that access to information plays in empowering citizens, strengthening civic engagement, and enhancing democratic values. Through continued collaboration, knowledge sharing and the adoption of effective practices, the RTI Commission remains dedicated to building a more open and informed society where information is accessible to all.
