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| Photo From International Conference for Information Commissioners |
On September 28 every year, we celebrate the fundamental right of people worldwide to seek, receive, and disseminate information. The International Day for Universal Access to Information aims to promote, protect, and preserve a society that makes access to information inclusive. This is especially important for people from underrepresented groups, minorities, and poverty-stricken individuals.
On November 17, 2015, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted Resolution 57 of the 38 Conference to declare the 28th of September as International Day for Universal Access to Information. The first official observation was in 2016, 6 years ago today. In honor of the declaration, UNESCO hopes that countries adopt the Freedom of Information (FOI) policies. So as, in 2019, the United Nations General Assembly acknowledged and adopted September 28 as a day for celebration.
In observance of IDUAI, UNESCO delivers global forums, panel discussions, and conferences with experts from all around the world. This year, 2022, the celebration will take place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan with the theme “Artificial Intelligence, e-Governance and Access to Information.” As the digital age continues, artificial intelligence and e-governance serve as a bridge between the citizens and the public sector. However, to warrant the ethical use of privacy, the talk will seize its opportunity to discuss both the benefits and risks of e-Governance and Artificial Intelligence against the backdrop of good governance principles to ensure that everyone is equipped with the right to access information.
Despite the significance of information accessibility, many countries continue to impose strict restrictions on it. The majority of nations do not view information access as a fundamental right.
Despite the enacted laws to support the freedom of information of Filipinos, the Philippines is yet to build a more efficient and inclusive system to ensure transparency and open governance. Executive order no. 02, series of 2016 strengthens the right to information as enshrined in the constitution and promote a transparent and open government. Furthermore, Article 3 Bill of Rights Section 7 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution emphasizes the right of the people to information on matters of public concern.
Over three decades since the filing of the Freedom of Information Bill, it remains pending in Congress. Former vice president and presidential candidate, Atty. Leni Robredo has filed the Full Disclosure Bill in 2013 when she was a congresswoman; she cites the importance of transparency and public trust in the government. However, the elected and sitting president of the Philippines finds no sense of urgency on this matter.
Access to information plays an integral role in democracy, development, and free speech. Well-informed citizens can make well-informed decisions to counter corruption and misconduct. The right to information is crucial for taking part in democratic government and encouraging greater openness so that citizens may obtain information about how they are being governed. As the public has access to information on how the government works, they can hold the government accountable for its actions and judgments. Information is the key to power, and it belongs to the public. Thus, universal access to information is a cornerstone of a healthy and inclusive knowledge society.
The ability of the press and media to efficiently cover social issues and public concerns lies in the ability of people to access, seek, and acquire information. Press freedom can, however, rebound from even protracted periods of repression. The fight for democracy is entwined with honest and factual information. Hence, there is a significant correlation between press freedom and the right to universal access to information.
As freedom of speech is practiced hand in hand with access to information, we encourage you to write your thoughts and opinions and post them on social media. Use the hashtags #IDUAI or #UniversalAccessToInformation.
Kaya’t CASAns, halina at sama sama nating ipagdiriwang ang International Day for Universal Access to Information bilang mga mamamayang Pilipinong may alam at may pakialam. Patuloy nating labanan ang pagsugpo at lumaganap na maling impormasyon!
