Kathmandu : The International Day for Universal Access to Information is being observed in Nepal today through various programs, joining global celebrations on September 28. The United Nations General Assembly officially declared this observance on October 15, 2019, during its 74th session, following UNESCO’s recommendations and recognizing the essential role that access to information plays in sustaining democracy. Since then, the day has been marked in Nepal and worldwide not merely as a commemoration, but as an active effort to raise public awareness about the fundamental right to information. In July 2011, the UN Human Rights Committee affirmed that the right to access information is an inherent part of freedom of expression.
This right carries two core obligations: public bodies must proactively publish information of general interest and disclose requested details except under very strict, limited exceptions. Furthermore, the UN Sustainable Development Goals specify indicators requiring nations to establish and effectively implement legal frameworks for the right to information. Access to information increases transparency and accountability in public administration, reduces opportunities for corruption, improves service delivery through an informed citizenry, strengthens good governance, empowers people to seek knowledge, drives civic participation, bridges the divide between citizens and official institutions, and enhances overall public trust in government entities.
In recent times, the National Information Commission in Nepal has emphasized leveraging digital mediums—including social media, the internet, and email—to streamline the flow of accurate information. This shift toward electronic channels has significantly simplified the process for both information seekers and public offices alike.
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