Chatham House Rule

The Chatham House Rule reads as follows:

 

"WHEN A MEETING, OR PART THEREOF, IS HELD UNDER THE CHATHAM HOUSE RULE, PARTICIPANTS ARE FREE TO USE THE INFORMATION RECEIVED, BUT NEITHER THE IDENTITY NOR THE AFFILIATION OF THE SPEAKER(S), NOR THAT OF ANY OTHER PARTICIPANT, MAY BE REVEALED".

The world-famous Chatham House Rule may be invoked at meetings to encourage openness and the sharing of information.

 

Explanation of the Rule

The Chatham House Rule originated at Chatham House with the aim of providing anonymity to speakers and to encourage openness and the sharing of information.  It is now used throughout the world as an aid to free discussion. Meetings do not have to take place at Chatham House to be held under the rule.