International Day for Universal Access to Information
Every September 28, the International Day for Universal Access to Information raises awareness of the right to information, as enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It stresses the role of free, independent, and pluralistic media in maintaining public access to information according to continental and international standards. Read on to learn more.
Key Info: International Day for Universal Access to Information
- When is International Day for Universal Access to Information?
Occurs annually on the 28th of September - This Year (2026):
Monday, September 28, 2026 - Official Website: UNESCO Universal Access to Information Day
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Future Dates
- Tuesday, September 28, 2027
- Thursday, September 28, 2028
- Friday, September 28, 2029
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Additional Details
- Observed By: Governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and information professionals globally
- Where Is It Observed: International
- Primary Theme: Information Access and Transparency
- Hashtags: #IDUAI #AccessToInfoDay #RightToKnow #AccessToInformation #InformationForAll
Quick links: International Day for Universal Access to Information
Why the International Day for Universal Access to Information Matters
Access to information is a public good in the context of "Universal Access to Information," which promotes principles of fairness, democracy, and societal progress. This perspective views information as a fundamental human right that should be accessible to all the stakeholders of society.
The International Day for Universal Access to Information focuses on this fundamental human right by overcoming challenges related to language barriers, digital illiteracy, infrastructure limitations, and censorship.
Data and Statistics
The United Nations reports that 87% of people in developed countries can access the Internet, compared to only 19% of individuals in developing nations.
According to Access Now, there are a total of 283 documented internet shutdowns in 39 countries in 2023.
On a more positive note, according to UNESCO, 30 and 71 countries have Open Standards and Open Data policies, respectively.
Where to Access Information
- Public libraries offer free access to resources such as books, newspapers, magazines, and digital media. They often also provide internet access and research assistance.
- Government websites publish laws, regulations, reports, and other public documents. They are a reliable source of authoritative information.
- Educational institutions often provide students, staff, and the general public free access to their libraries and other resources.
- Non-profit organizations publish research, reports, and other information related to their mission and activities. This can be a valuable source of specialized information.
- Online platforms and social media provide free access to a wide range of information. Social media platforms can provide real-time information and discussions.
Brief Timeline of the International Day for Universal Access to Information
The United Nations General Assembly established the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote "the free flow of ideas by word and image."
The International Right to Know Day is established. International civil society advocates begin developing the International Day for Universal Access to Information for the international recognition of the right to access information.
UNESCO General Conference endorses the Recommendation concerning the Promotion and Use of Multilingualism and Universal Access to Cyberspace.
Pushed by African civil society groups, UNESCO's 38th General Conference recognized 28 September as the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI).
The 74th UN General Assembly proclaims September 28 as IDUAI through A/RES/74/5, highlighting its importance in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
IDUAI Themes and Hashtags
| September 28, 2020 | Access to Information - Saving Lives, Building Trust, Bringing Hope |
| September 28, 2021 | The Right to Know - Building Back Better with Access to Information |
| September 28, 2022 | Artificial Intelligence, eGovernance, and Access to Information |
| September 28, 2023 | The Importance of the Online Space for Access to Information |
| September 28, 2024 | Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector |
- #AccessToInfoDay
- #RightToKnow
- #InfoAccess
- #OpenData
- #Transparency
Conclusion
The International Day for Universal Access to Information raises awareness about information accessibility. It also encourages advocacy for supportive policies allowing people to access public sector information and services. Let’s empower everyone with this fundamental right for a more inclusive world.
Resources:
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
International Day for Universal Access to Information, marked on September 28, champions the fundamental human right to exchange information, underlining its importance in advancing development, democracy, and equality worldwide.
It empowers people, promotes transparency, and strengthens democracy to create peaceful societies that preserve human rights and promote social justice.
These challenges include censorship, limited resources, and lack of awareness.
You can raise awareness by starting international discussions online, advocating for policies supporting access to information, and supporting related civil society organizations. By advocating for and supporting intergovernmental programs, you can enable a positive environment for access to information.
Mike is a degree-qualified researcher and writer passionate about increasing global awareness about climate change and encouraging people to act collectively in resolving these issues.
Fact Checked By:
Isabela Sedano, BEng.
