Annually observed on September 28th, the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) was officially designated by UNESCO in 2015 and later proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2019. This day underscores the significance of universal access to information in fostering democracy, supporting development, and promoting equality.

The primary goal of IDUAI is to ensure public access to information while affirming every citizen's right to be informed about any relevant data. This right to universal access to information is closely associated with the broader right to freedom of the press.

History and Background

• UNESCO's Role: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information in November 2015.
• United Nations General Assembly: In 2019, the UN General Assembly also adopted a resolution recognizing September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information.

Objectives and Significance

• Promote Transparency: To encourage transparency and accountability in governance by ensuring public access to information.
• Empower Citizens: To empower individuals by providing them with the information they need to participate fully in public life and make informed decisions.
• Support Sustainable Development: To highlight the role of access to information in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16, which includes promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Themes and Focus Areas

• Annual Themes: Each year, the day may focus on specific themes related to access to information, such as digital rights, open government, and media freedom.
• Right to Know: Emphasizing the legal and ethical aspects of the right to access information, and the responsibilities of governments and institutions to provide it.
• Information for All: Advocating for inclusive access to information, ensuring that marginalized and vulnerable groups are not left out.

Activities and Celebrations

• Conferences and Seminars: Organizing events that bring together policymakers, academics, journalists, and civil society to discuss issues related to access to information.
• Workshops and Training: Providing training for journalists, public officials, and activists on how to effectively access and disseminate information.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Running campaigns to inform the public about their right to access information and how to exercise this right.
• Research and Publications: Publishing reports, research findings, and policy briefs on the state of access to information in different countries and regions.

How to Participate

• Attend Events: Participate in events, webinars, and discussions organized by UNESCO, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
• Advocate: Advocate for stronger access to information laws and policies in your country or community.
• Educate: Raise awareness about the importance of access to information through social media, blogs, and community outreach.
• Utilize Rights: Exercise your right to access information by making information requests to public institutions and using available information to hold them accountable.

Global Participation

• International Reach: Celebrated globally, with participation from governments, international organizations, civil society groups, and the private sector.
• Cultural Relevance: Different regions may focus on specific local issues related to access to information, reflecting their unique challenges and contexts.
• Collaborative Efforts: Collaboration among stakeholders to share best practices, develop new strategies, and support the implementation of access to information laws.

Resources and Support

• UNESCO Resources: Access to UNESCO’s resources, including toolkits, guidelines, and reports on access to information.
• Legal Frameworks: Information on national and international legal frameworks that support the right to access information.
• Civil Society Support: Support from civil society organizations that work to promote and protect the right to information.

Notable Observations and Examples

• Legislative Progress: Highlighting countries that have recently passed or strengthened access to information laws.
• Case Studies: Sharing case studies of how access to information has led to positive outcomes in areas such as governance, public health, and education.
• Innovative Approaches: Showcasing innovative approaches to making information more accessible, such as open data platforms and mobile applications.

Key Messages

• Fundamental Right: Access to information is a fundamental human right that underpins democracy and good governance.
• Empowerment and Participation: Access to information empowers citizens, enabling them to participate more fully in society and hold authorities accountable.
• Sustainable Development: Access to information is crucial for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, as it supports transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information as essential components of a healthy and democratic society. It calls for continuous efforts to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has the right and the means to access the information they need.