International Right to Information Day observed to raise public awareness
Various government and private organisations and mass media have also undertaken publicity activities to create awareness about the theme and the right to information.
The International Right to Information Day, formally known as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, is being observed in Bangladesh today (28 September).
The day is being observed with the aim of strengthening people's right to know, promoting transparency and accountability in government activities and raising public awareness about the Right to Information Act.
Like other countries, Bangladesh is observing the day through various programmes.
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This year's theme is 'Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The role of access to Information in addressing Information Disorder', according to UNESCO website.
On the occasion, a discussion was organised at 3pm today at the auditorium of the Information Commission Bangladesh in Agargaon, Dhaka.
Various government and private organisations and mass media have also undertaken publicity activities to create awareness about the theme and the right to information.
An official statement requested electronic media outlets to broadcast the theme message in the form of a scroll.
The day is observed worldwide every year on 28 September.
UNESCO's General Conference proclaimed 28 September as the International Day for Universal Access to Information in 2015.
Later, on 15 October, 2019, the United Nations General Assembly recognised 28 September as the "International Day for Universal Access to Information."
The right to access information is an important foundation for establishing a transparent, accountable and inclusive society.
Access to reliable information about public services, development projects, budgets, the environment, public health and education helps citizens understand government activities and strengthens accountability.
In Bangladesh, the Right to Information Act was enacted to ensure citizens' access to information.
Under the act, citizens can seek information held by government and relevant authorities through prescribed procedures.
The Information Commission plays an important role in implementing the act and raising public awareness.
In the digital age, citizens can obtain information more quickly through government websites, social media, online services and digital repositories.
However, ensuring the accuracy, credibility and timeliness of information has become increasingly important, particularly as misinformation and misleading content can spread rapidly online.
Accurate and timely environmental information on rivers, water bodies, forests, air and water pollution, climate change, waste management and natural disasters can help increase public awareness and support informed decision-making.
UNESCO emphasises that universal access to accurate and reliable information is increasingly important in the digital age.
Government institutions need to regularly publish updated information in simple language and strengthen their capacity to provide information, while ensuring access for remote communities, women, young people, persons with disabilities and digitally disadvantaged groups.
At the same time, the free flow of information must be balanced with the protection of personal privacy, national security and information protected by law.
The day serves as a reminder that the right to information is not merely a legal right but also an important means of strengthening citizens' awareness, participation and empowerment, as well as transparency and accountability in public institutions.
