TIRANA, June 3 /ATA/ – Prime Minister Edi Rama underscored the importance of transparency and access to information as a prerequisite for a functioning democracy as he addressed the 15th edition of the International Conference of Information Commissioners, which is taking place in Tirana on Monday.
The conference is the highest and most important forum of cooperation and coordination among the international regulatory authorities to promote and protect access to public information as a fundamental pillar of social, economic and democratic governance.
In his remarks, the government head tackled three main points, namely the need to invest in digital infrastructure, the need to promote transparency in public institutions, and embrace openness. “I am proud for the Information and Data Protection Commissioner because of the incredible work being done by this institution and the fact that the Commissioner’s Office is highly praised as the country advances on the path towards becoming a European Union member is extremely inspiring,” PM Rama said.
He stated that the right to information is not just essential for democracy, but it is also crucial for its health and progress.
PM Rama also pointed out the power of exposing information to combat misinformation and disinformation. He acknowledged the challenge of implementing legislation effectively, calling for measures to bridge this gap.
Rama also announced plans for an annual conference on the right to information due to be held by the end of June, saying the event aims to address issues related to information access and usage, aligning legal principles with practical realities.
He emphasized the need for transparency in public institutions, advocating for increased public consultations and participatory governance.
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