Infoõigus

Infoõigus is an Estonian legal concept that translates to "right to information." It is a fundamental principle within Estonian law that allows individuals and legal entities to access information held by public authorities. This right is enshrined in the Constitution of Estonia and further elaborated upon in specific laws, most notably the Public Information Act.

The purpose of infoõigus is to promote transparency and accountability in government. By granting access to public information, it empowers citizens to understand how public funds are being used, how decisions are made, and how public institutions are operating. This transparency is considered crucial for a healthy democracy and for fostering public trust.

The Public Information Act defines what constitutes public information and outlines the procedures for requesting and receiving it. Generally, all information held by public authorities is considered public unless there is a legal basis to restrict its disclosure. Such restrictions can include protecting state secrets, personal data, commercial secrets, or ongoing investigations.

Individuals can submit information requests to public authorities in writing or, in some cases, orally. Authorities are obligated to respond to these requests within a specified timeframe, typically 15 working days, although this can be extended under certain circumstances. If a request is denied, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision. Infoõigus is a vital tool for ensuring open governance and facilitating public participation in the democratic process.