Open Government and Freedom of Information

“This is an essential volume for scholars and practitioners interested in open government. It includes an unprecedented range of case studies from across Asia and the Middle East. This book reminds us why open government is so important at a time when transparency and democracy are under pressure around the world.” —Alasdair Roberts, Professor of Public Policy, University of Massachusetts, USA “Open Government and the associated requirement of freedom of information are inextricably linked to good governance. This collection of country case studies spanning those which embrace open government to those with much to learn, offers a fascinating tour de force of Asian countries from diverse historical, political, and cultural backgrounds.” —Colin Knox, Professor of Public Policy, Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan; Emeritus Professor, Ulster University, UK The book examines the state of Open Government in Asia. Drawing on thirteen country case studies and one regional study, it analyses the application of Freedom of Information methods and assesses their implications for democratic governance, particularly transparency, accountability, participation, collaboration, inclusive policymaking and technology. The book also considers the usefulness of open participatory platforms that enable citizens’ ‘right to information’, and help them monitor and scrutinize governmental activities to ensure accountability, integrity and the quality of democracy. Contributors to the volume evaluate Open Government and Freedom of Information arrangements and relevant issues in a particular country and adjudge their performance. The book will appeal to scholars and students of public policy, digital governance and technology. Habib Zafarullah is Adjunct Faculty at the University of New England, Australia, where he served as Chair of Public Policy. He was previously Professor of Public Administration at Dhaka University, Bangladesh. Noore Alam Siddiquee is Professor of Public Policy at Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. His research interests include ethics and integrity, performance management, and digital governance.