Right to Know Day

Right to Know Day raises awareness about the importance of access to information as a fundamental component of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. Governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and media organizations organize seminars, workshops, public discussions, and awareness campaigns on transparency and freedom of information. The observance encourages open governance, responsible journalism, and citizen participation while promoting laws and policies that guarantee public access to official information.

Right to Know Day was first established by freedom of information advocates in 2002 to promote public access to government-held information and strengthen democratic accountability. In 2015, the UNESCO proclaimed 28 September as the International Day for Universal Access to Information, and in 2019, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized it as a United Nations observance. The day encourages governments worldwide to improve transparency, strengthen freedom of information laws, and ensure that citizens can access reliable public information. Today, it is observed globally through educational programs, public discussions, and initiatives promoting open government and informed citizenship.

Right to Know Day has no religious significance and is an international observance focused on transparency, accountability, and the public's right to information. Culturally, it promotes openness, responsible governance, and informed civic participation. Governments, media organizations, educational institutions, and civil society groups use the occasion to encourage access to information, digital inclusion, and media literacy. The observance also emphasizes that informed citizens are better equipped to participate in decision-making, hold institutions accountable, and contribute to democratic development. Its message supports fairness, trust, and public engagement across diverse societies.

Celebrate Right to Know Day by learning about your country's access to information laws and understanding your rights as a citizen. Attend seminars, webinars, workshops, or public discussions on transparency, governance, and freedom of information. Educational institutions can organize debates, essay competitions, and awareness campaigns on the importance of open government and responsible journalism. Journalists, researchers, and civil society organizations may share educational resources and success stories that demonstrate the value of public access to information. Although there are no religious or traditional rituals, the day is observed through education, advocacy, and initiatives that encourage transparency, accountability, and informed public participation.