Time for Change: Promoting and Protecting Access to Information and Reproductive and Sexual Health Rights in Peru

This report from Article 19 discusses a study that examined how access to information legislation instituted in August 2002 in Peru is being employed by organisations and individuals working on reproductive and sexual health. The study examined the implementation and use of the law at different levels of the State structure by conducting interviews in the capital city and three regions of Peru, thereby
gathering first-hand experiences of those actively involved. According to the researchers, the study confirmed that the right to freedom of information "is a vital means to realise the right to health."

According to this report, health-related information is fundamental to the realisation of the right to health. In terms of sexual and reproductive rights, priority issues identified were maternal mortality and abortion; HIV/AIDS; physical and sexual violence against women; unwanted pregnancy;
and the unmet needs of adolescents, all linked to social, economic, gender and cultural discrimination. According to the report, if individuals can access information on preventing and treating ill-health, they are empowered to make informed decisions about their health. Obstacles to freedom of information, including poverty, discrimination and stigma can impede access to information - and consequently good health. The obstacles are often greatest where individuals seek information on health issues - such as sexual and reproductive health - that are considered sensitive within a particular culture.

It is argued that Peru has taken a significant step towards protecting this right to information by passing an access to information law but there are many challenges ahead if it is to be implemented properly.
According to the report, in the short term efforts should focus on addressing lack of knowledge of the law's existence and how to use it but civil society such as non-governmental organisations, journalists and members of the business community and those who are aware of the law, should employ it immediately.

It is further proposed that there is a need to promote the value of information to the public. Media can play a key role in promoting information relating to reproductive and sexual health as well as a spirit of participation in social initiatives has been identified by
both State officials and civil society representatives. Journalists can play an important part in encouraging the full and fair implementation of the access to information law and publicising newsworthy stories and personal features that demonstrate its value.
There is also a need to train officials, and create a culture of information sharing within government agencies.