"Recognising the public interest of open access to documents within a clearly defined legal framework, taking into account applicable national laws,

Having regard to the fact that, when handling requests for access to documents, the principle of openness shall be applied to the greatest extent possible,"

The EFTA Council and the Standing Committee of the EFTA States have decided on rules for public access to all EFTA documents.

In decision no 6/2007 of the EFTA Council and decision no 3/2007/SC of the Standing Committee of the EFTA States, new rules were laid down on public access to third-country,  administrative documents and EEA related EFTA documents.

According to the decisions, as of April 1 2008 the EFTA Secretariat keeps a public register of documents drawn up by the EFTA Secretariat, accessible here.

Documents drawn up before April 2008 are accessible in the Public Access Archives.

In addition, the EFTA Secretariat in Geneva has an archive of documents from EFTA's foundation in 1960. The document types include Council Summary Records, agendas, notes, Agreements, speeches, press releases, annual reports, information material, etc. The archive may be accessed by researchers upon a written request. The request should outline the reason for the request and a brief outline of the research undertaken. The EFTA Secretariat will assess the request and consult with the EFTA Member States to grant access.