International Day for Universal Access to Information

Every year on September 28, the world celebrates the International Day for Universal Access to Information.

This day marks a global commitment to ensuring everyone has the right to seek and share information. This celebration stems from the belief that access to information is a key to building fair societies, enhancing knowledge, and fostering sustainable development.

This day is very significant. Access to information empowers people everywhere to make informed decisions, hold governments accountable, and participate fully in their society.

It’s essential for democracy and plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and fighting corruption. By facilitating the flow of information, societies can cultivate innovation and inclusivity, which are critical for progress and development.

We celebrate this day because of the fundamental human right to freedom of expression, which includes the right to seek, receive, and impart information.

This day serves as a reminder and a call to action to ensure that information freedom is available everywhere.

It underscores the ongoing need to adapt and strengthen information access laws to meet modern challenges, especially in the digital age where information is ubiquitous yet not always equitably accessible.

History of International Day for Universal Access to Information

The International Day for Universal Access to Information has a meaningful history highlighting its importance in promoting global access to information.

This day was officially established by UNESCO on November 17, 2015, and is celebrated every year on September 28. The declaration aimed to recognize and uphold the public’s right to know, enhancing transparency and governance worldwide.

The United Nations General Assembly further endorsed the day on October 15, 2019, underscoring its global significance. The initiative was driven by the need to foster a world where everyone can access information freely, a fundamental aspect of human rights and essential for societal development.

The day is particularly significant as it supports implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs) by ensuring that people everywhere can obtain and share information, which is vital for making informed decisions and holding governments accountable.

This global recognition encourages the adoption of laws that guarantee these rights, aiming to create more inclusive and transparent societies.

How to Celebrate International Day for Universal Access to Information

Dive into Digital Workshops

Why not jumpstart your celebration by diving into a digital workshop? Webinars on topics like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital governance could spark lively discussions and offer fresh insights into the intersection of technology and information access.

Host a Themed Movie Night

Gather friends or community members for a themed movie night featuring films and documentaries about the power of information and the free press. It’s a fun and engaging way to highlight the significance of accessible information.

Organize a “Right to Know” Fair

Take initiative and organize a local “Right to Know” fair. Invite speakers, set up information booths, and engage local media to cover the event. It’s a fantastic way to educate and involve the community in discussions about the importance of transparent and accessible information.

Engage Through Art

Why not use art to convey the message? Organize a poster-making session or an art contest centered on the theme of information access. It’s a creative way to express the fundamental right to information and its impact on society.

Start a Social Media Campaign

Lastly, harness the power of social media to spread the word. Use relevant hashtags like #IDUAI or #UniversalAccessToInformation to share stories, important statistics, and personal messages about the significance of open access to information.