One small step (a law) for information, a giant leap for democracy: Brazilian archival legislation and its capacity to strengthen transitional justice

Abstract

1964 marked the beginning of the Military Regime in Brazil. From that moment onwards, a series of restrictive measures on the liberty of citizens was implemented, including laws of exception and the proscription of political rights. But 20 years later, in 1985, the “transition into democracy” was launched. Starting in the 1990s, a discussion in favour of the opening of archives due to their importance and significance for human rights arose in many countries. Possibly influenced by these discussions, Brazil passed Law No. 8.159, known as the “Law of Archives” in 1991. From 2008, the Brazilian media began to use the term “transitional justice” more frequently, something which highlights the role of archival documents as a necessary source in the process of reconciliation. In 2011, Law No. 12.527, the Law of Access to Information, was passed. Besides determining that the State shall adopt a more open policy on information, this Law is also innovative in terms of its comprehensiveness, since it applies to or...