Dear John,

Today (28 September), join us as we celebrate Right to Know Day: an international day dedicated to promoting universal access to information. This year’s theme is the importance of online spaces for access to information.

Freedom of expression consists of the right to speak and the right to know. It is the key that unlocks all our other rights. It helps us achieve more transparent institutions, greater accountability, and reduced corruption – all essential for human flourishing and healthy democracies.

On paper, the right to information has been a huge success: over 90% of people worldwide live in a country that guarantees them this right in law or policy.

In practice, the gap between rights and reality is stark – especially for the world’s poorest and most marginalised communities.

Internet Connectivity as an Enabler of the Ability to Exercise Rights Online, with a Particular Focus on ATI

Location: Online | University of Oxford

Time: 14:15 - 15:30 BST

We are excited to host a panel discussion today, in cooperation with Foianet on Internet connectivity as an enabler of the ability to exercise rights online, as part of UNESCO’s global celebrations of Right To Know Day.

Our speakers, including ARTICLE 19 Executive Director Quinn McKew, will explore the role of internet access in exercising rights online.

Click the link below to join the conversation online, wherever you are.

We work to close the gap between rights and reality for communities worldwide: 

In today's interconnected world, the internet is more than just a tool – it's a vital enabler of our rights. Without it, we struggle to access healthcare, make informed voting decisions, stay safe in a natural disaster, and organise protests. 

Unequal access to the internet therefore means unequal access to these rights, which perpetuates poverty and marginalisation.

That’s why strategies to provide universal connectivity and close the digital divide must prioritise the right to information.

ARTICLE 19 is calling on governments, private entities, and civil society to:

1. Monitor the implementation of right to information laws globally.

2. Encourage proactive disclosure of information via mobile apps.

3. Publish annual reports on government schemes set up to provide universal, inclusive, and affordable internet access.

These reforms will lead to transparent institutions, greater accountability, and reduced corruption, while connecting the unconnected.