International Day for Universal Access to Information 2023: History, Dates, Activities, and FAQs

International Day for Universal Access to Information 2023: Every year, on September 28, International Day for Universal Access to Information is observed. This day promotes the notion that everyone has the fundamental right to pursue, receive, and distribute information. This privilege is also connected to the right to free speech. Included are communications at the local, national, and international levels. The right to information is necessary for making decisions, participating in democratic governance, and increasing openness, which gives citizens access to information about how their government operates. It lays the foundation for the struggle against corruption. The media also plays a crucial role, as it informs the public about relevant issues and relies on the public’s ability to search and receive information. It is believed that this privilege is linked to the freedom of the press for this reason.

HISTORY OF GLOBAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION DAY

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information on November 17, 2015. In addition, the United Nations General Assembly has designated September 28, 2019, as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, recognizing that numerous civil society organizations and government entities around the globe have embraced and are currently commemorating this day.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and its intergovernmental programs provide a forum and framework for all parties to participate in international policy and normative deliberations on access to information as a human right. Worldwide, Right to Know Day has been observed since 2002 and was established by international civil society advocates in 2012. African civil society organizations lobbied the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to approve the resolution establishing the day because they desired greater information transparency.

Currently, only 17 member states of the African Union have adopted national right-to-information laws. At the national level, organizations such as the Open Government Partnership anticipate that recognizing the right to information will provide an essential platform for all stakeholders. This is a discussion regarding adopting and effectively implementing federal right-to-information laws in accordance with continental and international obligations and standards.

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FAQs Concerning INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION

What is the definition of access to information right?

Access to information is the right to request, receive, and share information held by public agencies.

How do we gain access to data?

There are numerous ways to access information, including the Internet and public access sites such as libraries and colleges.

Which nation instituted the first law on the right to information?

Sweden was the first nation to enact a law guaranteeing press freedom. In 1766, this Act was passed.

HOW TO OBSERVE UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION DAY

Attend web-based seminars

To commemorate the occasion, UNESCO and other partner institutions will host six online webinars. You can celebrate by attending these seminars and learning about your basic rights.

Distribute information

This day is also a wonderful occasion to promote the right to access information. Some individuals are ignorant of the existence of the fundamental human right to access information.

Use #IDUAI or #UniversalAccessToInformation as your hashtags.

Imagine a world where people do not have access to information. Then, to reach a larger audience, create an Instagram post expressing your opinions and include the hashtag.