Space for access to knowledge (A2K) is shrinking not only because of increased pressure for more rights from copyright owners but also because developing countries are giving away public rights.

Citizens’ wellbeing depends on access to the vast amounts of knowledge held by governments. Legal reforms should therefore promote access to government information, freedom of expression and universal access to telecommunications networks.

It is also a private issue. Access to knowledge increases creativity, development and utility. Open source software, as opposed to proprietary software, is an example of a ”knowledge environment” where relaxed intellectual property protection can lead to greater information production, as well as opportunities for  corporate profit making through the provision of services and development of support networks.

Finally A2K is a development issue. Common development is more important than private wealth. Because knowledge plays such an important role in economic growth, any sustainable attempt at poverty reduction must address knowledge flows. Accountability and transparency must be promoted at the national level.