INTRODUCTION RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The research adopts both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection, and seeks to evaluate the level of public access to information held by government and public organisations. Each MISA Chapter conducts research by evaluating the websites of government and public organisations along with submitting written requests for information. This method seeks to establish the transparency and efficiency of government and public organisations in providing information to the public. Although Eswatini is a signatory to several regional and international instruments on freedom of expression and freedom of the media, these instruments have not been domesticated. The country has approximately 32 laws that restrict freedom of expression and media freedom, including the Official Secrets Act. The process of accessing information for ordinary citizens, particularly those in rural communities, is not easy. In 2007, the government released a draft Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Bill. However, 13 years later, the bill has still not been passed. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was expected that information about this disease would be made accessible, and that it would encourage the sharing of information. However, according to the Article 29, sub-section 1 (b) of the recent COVID-19 Regulations: No one may use print or electronic media to publish information about COVID-19 without the Ministry of Health’s permission. This amounts to censorship of a major public health issue. y There are many laws in Eswatini which restrict the public’s access to information. y Many public officials seem to have forgotten that the information they hold belongs to the citizens of Eswatini. ORGANISATIONS SURVEYED The following public organisations were surveyed: 1. Deputy Prime Minister’s Office 2. Eswatini Revenue Authority 3. Eswatini Tourism Authority 4. Eswatini Youth Enterprise Fund 5. Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade 6. Ministry of Health 7. Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs AIM OF THE STUDY 8. The aim of this study was to assess the state of access to information in Eswatini. Specifically, it sought to examine the level of openness and ability to provide requisite information by government/public organisations. Ten organisations were surveyed between 6 July – 5 August 2020. Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development 9. Municipal Council of Manzini However, some organisations have made very positive strides in improving their lines of communication. RATIONALE AND RESEARCH PARAMETERS 10. National Disaster Management Agency OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY y To determine which organisations (both government and public) provide information to citizens upon request, timeously and with relative ease. y To determine which organisations (both government and public) utilise online platforms to promote access to information. RETURN TO CONTENTS PAGE 25 ESWATINI TRANSPARENCY ASSESSMENT REPORT