Madrid, 12 August 2024 – Access Info Europe today announces the launch of the Access Info Impact Award which celebrates those who have used their right to information to have a positive impact on society.  

The Access Info Impact Award recognises those who have significantly leveraged their right to information to advance human rights, environmental protection, democracy, and/or anti-corruption efforts. 

By celebrating exemplary achievements of civil society advocates, campaigners, journalists, academics and practitioners across Europe, the award aims to highlight the importance of the right to information and inspire others to utilise this powerful tool.

Through this award, Access Info Europe and the Open Government Partnership (OGP) honour the impressive work and achievements of Helen Darbishire in championing access to information globally.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Nominations must show how the right to information was used to have a tangible impact on advancing human rights, environmental protection, democracy, and/or anti-corruption efforts.
  • Impact can be demonstrated through various mechanisms, such as research, political advocacy, litigation, journalistic investigations, or campaigns.
  • The nominee’s work must have been conducted in the past three years.
  • This award is open to individuals working in Europe, including civil society advocates, campaigners, journalists, academics and practitioners. 

Benefits of the award

  • Invitation to speak at OGP Summit: OGP will invite the winner to speak, with travel covered, at the 2025 OGP Summit in Spain, offering a platform to share their story and insights with an international audience.
  • Global Promotion and Recognition: Access Info and the Open Government Partnership will promote the winner’s impactful work globally.

Nomination Process

  • Nominate yourself or another person by filling out this application form.
  • Deadline to nominate is 9th September.
  • The winner will be announced ahead of 28th September, International Right to Know Day.  

For more information, contact Rachel Hanna / rachel@access-info.org