International Right To Know Day

International Right To Know Day: Empowering Access to Information

International Right To Know Day, also known as the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI), is an annual observance that celebrates the right of individuals to access information held by public authorities. This day promotes transparency, accountability, and the fundamental human right to seek and share information.

Quick Facts

When is it?: September 28th annually
Tagged as: Access to Information Day
What’s the hashtag?: #RTK2024
When was it founded?: September 28, 2002
Who founded it?: Freedom of Information advocates at a conference in Sofia, Bulgaria

History of International Right To Know Day

The International Right To Know Day was established in 2002 by freedom of information advocates from various countries. It gained official recognition from UNESCO in 2015 and was further endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019, underscoring its global significance in promoting transparency and good governance.

Timeline

2002: Established by FOI advocates in Sofia, Bulgaria
2015: Recognized by UNESCO as the International Day for Universal Access to Information
2019: Endorsed by the UN General Assembly, solidifying its global importance

International Right To Know Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	September 28	Sunday
2026	September 28	Monday
2027	September 28	Tuesday
2028	September 28	Thursday
2029	September 28	Friday
2030	September 28	Saturday

Observed: International Right To Know Day

This day is observed worldwide through various events and initiatives organized by civil society groups, government bodies, and international organizations. Activities include conferences, workshops, awards ceremonies, and public awareness campaigns.

Many countries use this day to launch new transparency initiatives or to review and improve their existing access to information laws. It serves as a platform for dialogue between citizens and governments on the importance of information access.

The day also highlights the role of access to information in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas of good governance, public participation, and fighting corruption.

Fun Facts About International Right To Know Day

Over 125 countries now have laws guaranteeing citizens’ right to access government information.
Sweden was the first country to introduce freedom-of-information rules in 1766.
The International Freedom of Information Advocates Network (FOIAnet) was established on the same day as International Right To Know Day.
Some countries extend the celebration to a full week, known as Right to Know Week.
Music has been composed specifically for this occasion in some countries.

Quiz

In which year was International Right To Know Day first established?
What does the acronym IDUAI stand for?
Which organization officially recognized this day in 2015?
How many countries had freedom of information laws as of 2021?
What is the primary goal of International Right To Know Day?

(Answers: 1. 2002, 2. International Day for Universal Access to Information, 3. UNESCO, 4. 127, 5. To promote the right to access information and government transparency)

FAQs

What is the purpose of International Right To Know Day?
It aims to raise awareness about the right to access information and promote government transparency and accountability.

How can individuals participate in International Right To Know Day?
People can participate by attending local events, requesting public information, or organizing awareness campaigns in their communities.

Is the right to information recognized as a human right?
Yes, it is recognized as a fundamental human right by international bodies and many national constitutions.

How does access to information benefit society?
It enhances democratic participation, helps fight corruption, and enables citizens to make informed decisions.

Are there any limitations to the right to access information?
While broad, this right can be limited for reasons such as national security, personal privacy, or commercial confidentiality, as defined by law.

Importance of International Right To Know Day

International Right To Know Day plays a crucial role in promoting democratic values and good governance worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the power of information in enabling citizens to participate fully in their societies and hold their governments accountable.

This day emphasizes the need for transparent and open governments, which are essential for building trust between citizens and their leaders. By promoting access to information, it contributes to the fight against corruption and the misuse of power.

Furthermore, International Right To Know Day highlights the importance of information in addressing global challenges. Access to accurate and timely information is crucial for tackling issues like climate change, public health crises, and social inequalities, making this day relevant to achieving sustainable development goals.