International Day for Universal Access to Information

Quick Facts - CA

ℹ HashtagsCompiled on10:03	#AccessToInfoDay
Related Hashtags	#RightToKnow, #IDUAI2023, #IDUAI, #AccessToInfo, #IDUAI2023KE
2023 Date	September 28, 2023
2024 Date	September 28, 2024

2023 Holidays & Dates

		Canadian & Common Holidays
		Misc. & Int'l. Observancesℹ
		Christian Holidays
		Jewish Holidays
		Muslim Holidays

Get Holiday reminders on X:

International Day for Universal Access to Information in

Thursday, Sep 28

Days to go:

The International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) primarily focuses on the vital role that information access plays in ensuring sustainable development, democracy, and human rights. The observance highlights the importance of transparency, freedom of information, and right to information legislation. By promoting open government principles, this day aims to encourage the sharing and accessibility of accurate, reliable, and useful information for citizens around the world.

The United Nations General Assembly declared September 28th as the International Day for Universal Access to Information in 2020, following its proclamation by the UNESCO General Conference in 2015. In the Canadian context, the observance holds great significance as Canada is committed to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which promotes open data, accountability, and participatory approaches to government decision-making. Moreover, Canada’s Access to Information Act supports the right to access records held by federal departments and agencies, reflecting the nation's dedication to fostering an informed citizenry.

In Canada, the IDUAI is observed through various events, workshops, and panel discussions that engage stakeholders from the public, private, and civil society sectors. These activities are designed to raise awareness about information access as a fundamental human right, strengthen the capacities of stakeholders, and contribute to the development of policies and practices that promote universal access to information. By joining the global community in observing this day, Canada reaffirms its commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and the right to access information for all citizens.

Facts about this observance

The theme for International Day for Universal Access to information in 2022 was Artifical Intelligence, e-Governance and Access to Information.
Public access to information can enhance the protection of human rights, bring about better governance, including by fighting corruption, and drive sustainable development. - Moez Chakchouk
More than 90% of Americans have internet access, with 77% reporting broadband access at home.
Public libraries play an essential role in promoting universal access to information in Canada. These institutions provide free access to books, internet facilities, workshops, and other learning resources for all Canadians.
The Canadian government is committed to improving access to high-speed internet across the country, focusing on rural and remote areas, to ensure equal access to information and digital resources.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day for Universal Access to Information

Updated 10:01 CITAD Partners IMS Department, BUK to Commemorate Int’l Day of Universal Access to Information 2023 - Prime Time News

primetimenews.ng

Statement by the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa on the occasion of the International Day for Universal Access to Information 28 September 2023

au.int

Leveraging Technology to Advance Access to Information in Kenya on International Day of Universal Access to Information » Capital News

capitalfm.co.ke

DigiMAP Champions Access to Information on International Day | TNN

tnnenglish.com

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

Visit your public library and check out their available resources.
Spend the day researching the importance of universal access to information. Learn about the benefits, challenges, and significance of transparent access to information in Canada and around the world.
Explore open data platforms (e.g., Canada's Open Government Portal) and browse through available datasets. Analyze and visualize data to understand how universal access to information can contribute to evidence-based decision-making.