This project originated from the idea that access to information is a fundamental human right. After all, under the historical point of view, transparency of public accounts is as important to democracy as it is freedom of expression.
Since Ancient Greece, administrators are accountable. At the time, the community gathered in the Agora to examine the accounts of the archons, ambassadors, generals and all those who managed money from taxes collected. In the 21st century, citizenship comes through digital means.
Fortunately, many share these thoughts, believing that the social control enhance the quality and lawfulness of public spending. Among them, members of the Committee on Transparency and supporters – present and future –, which are material to the success of this initiative.
The present-day Agora is the web and the State is all of us.
Gil Castello Branco Secretary-General, Associação Contas Abertas