International Day for Universal Access to Information 2022: Everything You Need to Know
International Day for Universal Access to Information 2022: Everything You Need to Know
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Every year on September 28, there is a celebration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information. The idea that everyone on the planet has a fundamental right to information access and dissemination is supported to this day. Additionally connected to the freedom of expression is this right. Local, national, and international communication are all included. In order to make decisions, participate in democratic government, and foster more openness that enables citizens to have access to information about how they are being governed, the right to information is essential. 

It creates a foundation for the battle against corruption. The public's ability to seek out and receive information is essential for the media's ability to inform the public on matters of interest. Because of this, it is thought that this right is also connected to the freedom of the press.

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The International Day for Universal Access to Information was established by the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on November 17, 2015 (UNESCO 38 C/70).

The UN General Assembly also declared September 28 to be the International Day for Universal Access to Information in its resolution 74/5 from 15 October 2019, taking into account the fact that numerous government agencies and civil society organisations around the world have already adopted and currently observe this observance.

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Everyone has the right to seek out, receive, and share information, according to the concept of universal access to information. Access to information is becoming more acknowledged as a requirement for human rights advocacy and sustainable development. Along with SDG 16, the 2030 Agenda also includes the aim (16.10) to advance access to information.

THE HISTORY OF WORLD INFORMATION DAY FOR GLOBAL ACCESS

In a decision passed on November 17, 2015, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information. In addition, the U.N. General Assembly has declared September 28, 2019, as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, acknowledging the support and celebration of this commemoration by several civil society organisations and governmental bodies around the world.

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All parties can participate in international policy and normative discussions on access to information as a human right through UNESCO and its intergovernmental initiatives. Right to Know Day was established by proponents of global civil society in 2012 and has been observed globally since 2002. In order to increase information openness, African civil society organisations urged UNESCO to approve the resolution creating the day.

Only 17 African Union member states now have national right-to-information legislation in place. The recognition of the right to information, according to organisations like the Open Government Partnership, will give all stakeholders a crucial national platform. The topic of discussion is the adoption and successful implementation of federal right-to-information laws in accordance with domestic and global norms and obligations.

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