ABSTRACT

An assertion of a right to access to information can be distinguished from an assertion of a free speech right, although the two are clearly linked.2 This distinction receives support from the wording of Art 10 of the European Convention, which speaks in terms of the freedom to ‘receive and impart information’, thus appearing to exclude from its provisions the right to demand information from the unwilling speaker. Moreover, the phrase ‘without interference from public authorities’ does not suggest that governments should come under any duty to act in order to ensure that information is received.