Freedom of Information: Law and Practice, A comparative study of Norway and Vietnam

Abstract

This master thesis is a comparative study of the legislation and practice of freedom of information in Norway and Vietnam. The thesis poses the question if we have an international human right to information, is there a universal moral right to information? and how is that implemented domestically? - using Norway and Vietnam as comparative case studies. The thesis aims to spell out an understanding and rationale of the right to information and aims to provide constructive suggestions on how to enhance the implementation of such right in the process of law making in Vietnam, and how to learn from the processes of law making and law implementation. In addition, the thesis aspires to be of use to the continued human rights dialogues and cooperation between Vietnam and Norway. The conclusion is that although there are differences in politic, culture and level of development, the right to information is a universal moral right which must be made into law. In both contexts, such a law should address the emerging societal needs of the country and be implemented under conditions of the institutional reform towards more openness and transparency.