The importance of the day for generalizing access to information in the construction of knowledge societies – Something for the Nation – ✍️ Mr. Salah Ghariba
The celebration of Universal Access to Information Day takes place on September 28 each year to reflect the international community's belief in the right of every individual to obtain and exchange information. This fundamental right is not just a slogan, but rather a pillar for building advanced knowledge societies that seek sustainable development. In light of rapid technological developments, access to information has become easier than ever, but challenges remain and require concerted efforts at international and local levels to ensure fair and equitable access to information for all.
Information has become the strong currency of our current era, as it is the main driver of innovation and progress and plays a decisive role in decision-making in various fields. In light of the Corona pandemic, this demonstrated the importance of accurate and reliable information to combat the spread of the disease and protect lives. Information also allows individuals to actively participate in public life and make informed decisions about their future and that of their communities.
Libraries play a central role in universal access to information, as they serve as knowledge gateways allowing everyone to access various sources, including books, articles and research. The role of libraries has grown significantly in recent years to keep pace with technological development, as they now provide their services in a digital format, allowing users to more easily access information from anywhere and at any time.
Despite the progress made in the area of universal access to information, this fundamental right remains faced with numerous challenges, notably the digital divide. Millions of people around the world still lack access to the Internet, leaving them without access. Recently, so-called “fake news” or “disinformation” has become widespread, making it difficult for individuals to distinguish between truth and lies, and more efforts are still needed to translate content into different languages and l adapt to different cultures. .
To overcome these challenges, we must take action, including strengthening international cooperation. Countries must cooperate with each other to exchange experiences and knowledge and develop common policies to strengthen the right of access to information, and support libraries and cultural institutions. be provided to libraries and cultural institutions to enable them to provide their services appropriately. Better, in addition to the development of digital skills, emphasis must be placed on their development among individuals, particularly in developing countries, to enable them to use technology to access information. The public must be made aware of the danger of misleading information and provided with the skills to distinguish truth from lies.
Universal Access to Information Day is an important opportunity to recall the importance of information in our daily lives and to highlight the right of every individual to obtain it. Through concerted efforts at international and local levels, we can build just and equitable knowledge societies that help achieve sustainable development for all.
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