International Day for Universal Access to Information

History of International Day for Universal Access to Information

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted a resolution on November 17, 2015, declaring September 28 as International Day for Universal Access to Information. Furthermore, the U.N. General Assembly has designated September 28, 2019, as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, recognizing that various civil society organizations and government entities worldwide have embraced and are currently celebrating this commemoration.

UNESCO and its intergovernmental programs provide a forum and framework for all parties to participate in international policy and normative discussions on access to information as a human right. Worldwide, Right to Know Day has been observed since 2002 and was created by international civil society advocates in 2012. African civil society organizations lobbied UNESCO to pass the resolution establishing the day because they wanted more information transparency.

Currently, there are only 17 African Union member states that have adopted national right-to-information laws. Groups like Open Government Partnership hope that recognizing the right to information will provide an essential platform for all stakeholders at a national level. This is to discuss adopting and effectively implementing federal right-to-information laws in line with continental and international standards and obligations.

International Day for Universal Access to Information timeline

2002

The Day is Set Aside

International Right to Know Day commences on September 28, 2002.

2015

The Official Declaration

The UNESCO General Assembly designates September 28 as "International Day for Universal Access to Information."

2019

The Recognition by U.N. General Assembly

The seventy-fourth United Nations General Assembly declares September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information in October 2019.

2021

The Theme is "The Right To Know"

The theme highlights the role of access to information laws and their enforcement in rebuilding solid institutions for the public good and sustainable development.

International Day for Universal Access to Information FAQs

When is International Day for Universal Access to Information?

International Day for Universal Access to Information 2026 falls on Monday, September 28. It’s a day to reflect on the importance of transparency and the right to information.

Why is universal access to information important?

Universal access to information is crucial for fostering democratic governance, combating corruption, and empowering citizens to make informed decisions. It underpins freedom of expression and enables accountability.

How many countries have laws on access to information?

As of 2026, over 130 countries worldwide have enacted some form of legislation guaranteeing the right to access information. This reflects a growing global recognition of its importance.

Is the right to information a human right?

Yes, the right to information is widely recognized as a fundamental human right, often considered an extension of the right to freedom of expression enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

How to Observe International Day for Universal Access to Information

Attend online seminars

UNESCO and other partner institutions will host six online webinars to mark the occasion. You can celebrate by attending these seminars and understand your fundamental right.

Share information

This day is also an excellent opportunity to promote the right to information. Right to information is a fundamental human right, and some individuals are unaware of its existence.

Use the hashtags #IDUAI or #UniversalAccessToInformation

Think what it would be like if people did not have access to information. Then, to reach a wider audience, make a post expressing your opinions and share it on Instagram with the hashtag.

5 Benefits Of Universal Right To Access To Information

Citizens can hold government accountable

With access to information, citizens can demand accountability from public officials.

It ensures transparency

This benefit is related to the government and private entities that are also in charge of people's information.

It helps fight corruption

Because people have access to public spending records, officials will be more careful how they use public funds.

Governments are more transparent

With access to information, governments can document what they intend to do for their citizenry.

It enables evidence-based decisions

Informed choices are critical in democratic governments since they improve resource allocation and save public funds.

Why International Day for Universal Access to Information is Important

It is a Human Right

According to the United Nations, everyone enjoys this human right. It implies that no government or private body should infringe on the universal right to information.

This day is celebrated across the world

This day is celebrated worldwide. Many countries have recognized the importance of freedom of information.

This day raises awareness

It is critical to understand how citizens are governed so that they can hold their governments accountable for their policies and actions. Information is, without a doubt, power.