Appraisal and access: We should expect changes driven by the media and by public awareness

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present a statement of the author's personal opinion onrnsome of the effects of media discussion of issues with a records component.rnDesign/methodology/approach - In the discussion, appraisal of records for retention and thernaccess to be given to users of these are singled out. Effects of electronic records management arernincluded.rnFindings - Accountability is seen as being the main principle in the appraisal of public records, butrnis extended to the private sector in such matters as environmental protection. Access is effected by thernopening of the hitherto secret records of Eastern Europe, but also by new legal provision for datarnprotection and freedom of information.rnOriginality/value - Principles for further development of professional action in records andrnarchives management are suggested.