Everyone has the right to seek, receive and impart information, this right is an integral aspect of freedom of expression. This makes the right to universal access to information intertwined with the freedom of the press, as such, universal access to information is a pillar of healthy, inclusive, informed and democratic societies.
The media plays an essential role in informing the public about issues of interest. The international day for universal access to information was proclaimed on 15 October 2019 at the 74th UN general conference to be held on 28th September.
UNESCO resolution for creating the day was pushed by African civil society groups seeing greater information (transparency). About 17 African union member states have adopted national right to information, laws and groups like Open Government Partnership (OGP) hope that the recognition of the right to information will provide an important platform for all stakeholders at national level to discuss the adoption and effective implementation of national right to information laws in line with continental and international standards and obligation.
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