Universal Access to Information Day is an international day celebrated annually on September 28 that highlights the right of all individuals to equal access to information. This day was established to remind us of the central role that the right to information plays in democratic societies and the conscious participation of individuals in decision-making processes. Universal access to information is recognized as an integral part of freedom of expression and is guaranteed in human rights documents.

Purpose and Importance

The right to access information enables individuals to participate consciously in governance, public policies, and social processes. Universal access to information is a fundamental tool for protecting human rights, reducing poverty, building inclusive information societies, and strengthening transparent governance. The right to obtain information increases accountability and trust by enabling citizens to evaluate the decisions and actions of their leaders. UNESCO considers access to information a fundamental element of sustainable development, democracy, and equality.

Universal access to information includes the right of everyone to seek, receive, and impart information. This right is closely linked to freedom of expression, and the media plays an important role in informing the public. For the media to function effectively, the right of access to information must be protected.

History and International Resolutions

The foundations of Universal Access to Information Day are based on Resolution 38 C/57, adopted by the UNESCO General Conference on November 17, 2015.^【1】 This resolution emphasized that the right to information is an integral part of freedom of expression, and the importance of the right to information has been reinforced in international documents such as the World Summit on the Information Society, the Brisbane Declaration (2010), the Maputo Declaration (2008), and the Dakar Declaration.

The Pan-African Conference and African Platform Declaration, held in Cape Town, Africa, from September 17 to 19, 2011, defined access to information as a fundamental element of development, democracy, equality, and public services. In this context, UNESCO has adopted access to information as one of its priority areas of action.

On October 15, 2019, the 74th General Assembly of the United Nations declared September 28 as the “International Day for Universal Access to Information” at the United Nations level. The resolution emphasized that the right to information is a fundamental element of democratic participation, accountability, and transparency. Member states, organizations within the United Nations system, international and regional organizations, civil society organizations, and individuals are invited to celebrate this day in the most appropriate manner.^【2】 

The Right to Universal Access to Information and Legal Basis

The right to information encompasses the right of individuals to seek, receive, and impart information and is recognized as part of freedom of expression. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee this right. UNESCO considers access to information a fundamental element of sustainable development, inclusive information societies, and good governance.

Global Initiatives and Activities

UNESCO provides platforms for participation in international policy discussions through initiatives such as the International Programme for the Development of Communication and the Information for All Programme, supporting the implementation of the right to access information. These programs promote the enhancement of access to information and support projects on open science, multilingualism, information and communication technologies, and media literacy for persons with disabilities and disadvantaged groups.

The theme for 2025 has been designated as “Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age.” The theme highlights the importance of the international and timely sharing of environmental data (climate change, pollution, biodiversity, and disaster risks). It also emphasizes that digital technologies and open data platforms empower citizens to participate in environmental governance processes

The Right to Information and Its Implementation in Turkey

The right to information in Turkey was legally guaranteed by Law No. 4982 on the Right to Information, adopted on October 9, 2003. It gained constitutional status when it was added to Article 74 of the Constitution by a referendum on September 12, 2010. The Right to Information Evaluation Board (BEDK) evaluates citizens' appeals within the framework of the Constitution and legislation, makes its decisions in an impartial and equitable manner, and shares them with the public. The Board's decisions are published on its website and in a publication titled “The Right to Information in Light of the Decisions of the Republic of Turkey Information Access Evaluation Board.” These practices are maintained with the aim of strengthening the right to information and ensuring its effective use.