As such the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Sweden, have public participation and freedom of information provisions in their legal systems since before the Middle Ages.
Principle 10 states that "environmental issues are best handled with participation of all concerned citizens, at the relevant level".
States shall facilitate and encourage public awareness and participation by making information widely available.
Effective access to judicial and administrative proceedings, including redress and remedy, shall be provided.
The Convention makes participation of disabled one of its principles, stating "The principles of the present Convention shall be:...Full and effective participation and inclusion in society;" subsequently enshrining the right of disabled to participate fully and equally in the community, education, all aspect of life (in the context of habilitation and rehabilitation), political and public life, cultural life, leisure, and sports.