Open Government Partnership Annual Meeting – world leaders gather in Brasilia on 17 and 18 April

Delegates from 53 countries will come together in Brasilia for the 2012 annual meeting of the Open Government Partnership (OGP). This will establish OGP as a 21 century international movement that uses the latest tools and technologies to help governments solve age-old problems and deliver tangible results for citizens.

Attending countries will announce their action plans to achieve greater openness in order to bring governments and citizens closer together, cultivate shared understanding and help solve practical problems. Over 400 delegates – including representatives from civil society organisations, businesses and governments – will gather for two days of inspiring discussion on the latest reforms, tools and innovations in the open government field. They will share experiences from their respective countries, providing real examples of how openness can save lives, drive economic growth and reduce widespread corruption around the world.

Confirmed high-level attendees for the event include Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, UK Cabinet Minister Francis Maude and dozens of senior government ministers from around the world. Amongst a range of speakers are Ushahidi co-founder Juliana Rotich, Yemini anti-censorship activist Walid al-Saqaf and Indian education activist and TED-Fellow Gautam John.

Journalists wishing to cover the event should register for the meeting by completing the online registration form no later than Wednesday 11 April. Registration is free, although you will need to apply for a visa, which takes around a week to arrive. Brazilian regulations mean it is not possible to secure a visa upon arrival.

Media facilities, including a press centre and a press briefing room, will be available at the Ulysses Guimarães Convention Center. A communications team will also be on the ground to assist journalists and facilitate interviews.

Participants are responsible for making their own travel and hotel arrangements. Recommended hotels in Brasilia for attendees can be viewed here. A free shuttle bus service between the officially recommended hotels and the meeting venue will be available to participants. Transportation to and from Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport will not be provided, but taxicabs and rental cars are available at the airport. 

For more information please call hanover Communications on 0044 207 400 4480, email ogp@hanovercomms.com or visit www.opengovpartnership.org.