International Day for Universal Access to Information 2019: Theme and Significance of the Day for Right to Information

The International Day for the Universal Access to Information also known as Access to Information Day is celebrated on September 28 annually. The celebrations and events for the IDUAI 2019 are organised by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). This year marks the fourth observation of Access to Information Day. United Nations Stops Printing Press Releases, Goes Paperless.

The theme for this year is "Leaving No One Behind!". This day promotes the idea of every individual in the world has the right to seek and receive information. The right to information (RTI) is an essential part of right to freedom of expression. This includes right to information at all levels- local and national and international.

Despite the RTI is a fundamental right, many governments in the world continue to limit its excess to the common people. Additionally, some countries have also restrained excess to the internet. Access to information day makes people aware that they can obtain data at any level.

"The theme of this year’s celebration is 'Leaving No One Behind!', a mission in which digital technology is an invaluable resource. However, the unprecedented digital transformation of our era is also leading to new forms of inequality. To combat this, digital innovation must go hand in hand with the obligation of Member States to adopt and improve legislation for public access to information," said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.

How to Observe IDUAI 2019

Every year on Access to Information Day, many counties around the world hold events called "open talks". The UNESCO also plans regional and national events. You can also write thoughts and post on International Day for Universal Access to Information 2019 on social media and share it with #IDUAI or #UniversalAccessToInformation hashtags.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2019 07:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).