1.3. The purpose of PAIA and how it can be used The purpose of PAIA is to promote the right of access to information, to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in South Africa, and to encourage an open democracy where individuals from all walks of life are empowered to engage with government and participate in decisions which affect their lives. The right of access to information is a unique right as it enables the realisation of other human rights: this is one of the most important ways in which PAIA can be used. Provision of government services Civil and political constitutional rights Discimination and Equality •PAIA can be used to empower people with information with which to hold government account on their provision of basic services such as housing, water and sanitaiton. •PAIA can be used to gather information which individuals can use for exercising rights such as the right to vote and the right to freedom of assembly. •PAIA can be used as an advocacy tool to fight discrimination, such as discrimination on the basis of race, gender, etc, in various public or private bodies. It is important to note that PAIA cannot be used to obtain records for use during civil or criminal legal proceedings, including after the commencement of such proceedings, and if the production or access to the record for this same purpose is protected by law (see Section 7 of the Act). South African Human Rights Commission 14