The regulation of diffusion of public sector information via electronic means: Lessons from the Spanish regulation

• Published in: Government information quarterly 2011-04, Vol.28 (2), p.188-199
• Main Author: Cerrillo-i-Martínez, Agustí
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Authority; Citizens; Democracy; Disclosure; e-government; Electronic Government; FOI; Internet; Legitimacy; Public Administration; Public Sector; Public sector information; Public Services; Regulation; Spain; Transparency
• ISSN: 0740-624X; 1872-9517
• DOI: 10.1016/j.giq.2010.05.009

Transparency is one of the main challenges for public administrations in the information society to bring the public administrations closer to citizens and finally, to improve their democratic legitimacy. The article focuses on new tools to regulate the diffusion of public sector information and it also contributes some elements which will improve it. This analysis will be done, firstly by examining the various regulations approved in Spain on the diffusion of public sector information through electronic means. In particular, the scope of the Spanish e-Government Act will be analyzed in relation to the diffusion of public sector information through electronic means. Finally, some landmarks will be proposed which can serve to guide the formulation of new regulations on the use of electronic means for diffusing public sector information not only by Spanish public authorities but also by other authorities who intend to pass a regulation in this field to improve transparency. ► To increase transparency via electronic means it is useful to pass a regulation. ► The article shows the main points of a regulation of public information diffusion. ► The regulation should include rigths, duties, mechanisms and principles.