Day for Universal Access to Information

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is celebrated on September 28th every year.

💥 Are there any different dates of observance ?

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is celebrated on the same date, September 28th, worldwide.

💥 Other days with the same purpose

There are no other special days that share the exact purpose of the International Day for Universal Access to Information and are celebrated on different dates.

💥 Are there any special days for similar purposes ?

➡️ World Press Freedom Day (May 3rd): This day celebrates the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression. It emphasizes the importance of a free and independent media in promoting access to information and fostering democracy.

➡️ Right to Know Day (September 28th): This day focuses on promoting the right to access information held by public authorities. It raises awareness about the significance of transparency and accountability in governance.

➡️ Open Data Day (March 5th): This day promotes the use of open data and advocates for the accessibility and transparency of public information. It encourages the sharing and utilization of data for various purposes, including research, innovation, and policy-making.

➡️ Data Privacy Day (January 28th): This day aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting individuals' privacy and personal data. It emphasizes the need for transparent practices and responsible handling of information in the digital age.

➡️ International Right to Information Day (September 28th): This day focuses on promoting the right to access information and advocating for freedom of information laws globally. It highlights the role of access to information in empowering individuals, promoting good governance, and combating corruption.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is celebrated to emphasize the fundamental right of individuals to access information held by public authorities. It recognizes the importance of transparent and accountable governance, as well as the role of access to information in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The day also aims to raise awareness about the barriers to information access and the need to bridge the digital divide.

The origin of the International Day for Universal Access to Information can be traced back to the advocacy efforts of civil society organizations and the UNESCO-led initiative. The adoption of the resolution by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019 marked a significant milestone in recognizing the importance of universal access to information for development, democracy, and human rights.

💥 How is it celebrated ?

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is celebrated through various activities and initiatives that promote the principles of access to information. Some examples of how the day is celebrated include:

➡️ Organizing seminars, conferences, and workshops to raise awareness about the right to information and its impact on society.

➡️ Conducting campaigns and public awareness programs to promote transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information.

➡️ Engaging in advocacy efforts to strengthen legal frameworks and policies related to access to information.

➡️ Showcasing success stories and best practices of organizations and individuals who have utilized access to information for positive change.

➡️ Encouraging research and academic studies on the role of information in various domains, such as governance, education, health, and sustainable development.

💥 Celebration or Activity Suggestions

Here are some suggestions for celebrating the International Day for Universal Access to Information:

➡️ Organize panel discussions or webinars featuring experts and stakeholders to discuss the importance of access to information in different sectors and its impact on society.

➡️ Conduct workshops or training sessions to enhance awareness and digital literacy skills, empowering individuals to exercise their right to access information effectively.

➡️ Collaborate with libraries, educational institutions, and civil society organizations to promote information literacy and provide resources on accessing information.

➡️ Engage in social media campaigns to raise awareness about the day's significance, using hashtags such as #AccessToInformation, #TransparencyMatters, and #OpenData.

➡️ Share success stories and examples of how access to information has made a positive impact in communities, inspiring others to advocate for transparency and accountability.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is relevant to a wide range of stakeholders and the general public. The target audience includes:

➡️ Government officials and policymakers responsible for developing and implementing policies and practices related to access to information.

➡️ Civil society organizations and activists advocating for transparency, accountability, and human rights.

➡️ Media professionals, journalists, and press organizations promoting freedom of expression and the role of media in providing access to information.

➡️ Educators, researchers, and students interested in the impact of information access on various fields, including governance, development, and social justice.

➡️ Individuals who seek information to make informed decisions, exercise their rights, and actively participate in democratic processes.

Here are some hashtags that can be used to promote the International Day for Universal Access to Information and its purpose on social media:

#️⃣ #AccessToInformation

#️⃣ #TransparencyMatters

#️⃣ #RightToKnow

#️⃣ #FreedomOfInformation

#️⃣ #OpenData

#️⃣ #AccountableGovernance

#️⃣ #InformationRights

#️⃣ #SDGs

#️⃣ #DemocracyMatters

#️⃣ #InformedCitizen

The International Day for Universal Access to Information, also known as World Access to Information Day, is an annual observance celebrated on September 28th. This significant day highlights the importance of access to information as a fundamental right and a catalyst for sustainable development. Recognized globally, it serves as a reminder of the vital role information plays in fostering democracy, good governance, and informed decision-making.

Endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, the International Day for Universal Access to Information aims to promote transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information in societies worldwide. It recognizes the barriers to information access and the need to bridge the digital divide, emphasizing the principles of access to information as essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

On this day, various activities and initiatives are organized to celebrate and promote universal access to information. These include seminars, conferences, and workshops that raise awareness about the right to information and its impact on society. Campaigns and public awareness programs are conducted to advocate for transparency and the free exchange of information. Success stories and best practices are shared to inspire positive change, while research and academic studies delve into the role of information in governance, education, health, and sustainable development.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information targets a diverse audience. Government officials, policymakers, civil society organizations, media professionals, educators, researchers, and individuals interested in exercising their rights are among those who celebrate this day. Through collaborative efforts, digital campaigns, and the use of hashtags such as #AccessToInformation and #TransparencyMatters, the day aims to raise awareness, foster information literacy, and empower individuals to actively participate in democratic processes, advocate for transparency, and hold authorities accountable. By embracing the principles of access to information, societies can pave the way for a more transparent, inclusive, and sustainable future.