IFEX Newsletter

Information is power!

This Saturday, 28 September, marks the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI).

The ability of everyone to freely seek, receive and share information is a cornerstone of freedom of expression, and a cause passionately championed by IFEX members around the world. Today, the right to information is facing increasing threats - from attacks on journalists to censorship, disinformation, and internet shutdowns.

This week, we’re re-sharing a few member stories from 2024 that illustrate some of the current challenges and successes in working for open and safe access to information.

We only have space for a few stories, here. Curious about how IFEX members are driving change and fostering informed communities, year-round? Explore their inspiring work on our website.

In addition, UNESCO is hosting a global conference in Ghana on 1 and 2 October to commemorate the day. Find out more here!

Zambia | Access to Information

Zambia finally enacts ATI law

MISA welcomes President Haikande Hichelema’s enactment of Access to Information legislation after two decades of relentless advocacy.

Hongrie | Accès à l'information

Hongrie : Les restrictions imposées aux médias nuisent à l’État de droit

Les atteintes portées par le gouvernement hongrois à la liberté des médias et au pluralisme, qui font partie de ses attaques systématiques contre l’État de droit, entravent le travail des journalistes indépendants qui demandent des comptes aux autorités, et empêchent le public d’accéder à certaines informations.

Brésil | Accès à l'information

X bloqué au Brésil : une situation inéluctable lorsqu’une plateforme s’oppose à l’État de droit

« Le rôle que les plateformes se sont arrogé dans la structuration de l’espace informationnel ne leur donne pas le droit de se comporter de manière irresponsable. »

International | Attacks

UN Submission: The impact of « challenging times » on freedom of opinion and expression

IFEX highlights how the trend of States suppressing protests and the censorship of expressions of solidarity with Palestinians on social media reflects wider systemic challenges to free expression and information that affect democracy, civic space, and human rights.

Pakistan | Access to Information

IFEX calls for legislative initiatives in Pakistan to respect free expression and information online

IFEX is concerned about Pakistan’s increasingly restrictive digital environment, particularly since the February 2024 general elections which were marred with internet and telecommunications shutdowns, and the online censorship and harassment of journalists.

Ethiopia | Access to Information

Fact-checking training serves as a remedy for Ethiopia’s mis/disinformation

The integrity and credibility of journalism in Ethiopia has the potential to be reinforced by fact-checking training.

Russia | Access to Information

How Russia silences critical coverage of its war in Ukraine

From criminalising « fake » news about the war to expanding « foreign agent » and « undesirable » designations, Russia is facing the “biggest press freedom crisis » in its recent history.

Australia | Access to Information

Australia: Queensland shield laws will enhance right to know

Shield laws allow journalists to claim legal privilege in order to protect a confidential source.

Tunisia | Access to Information

Tunisia bans « Jeune Afrique » magazine for criticising president ahead of upcoming elections

The banning of « Jeune Afrique » is another step in Kais Saied’s clampdown on independent media, further undoing the democratic gains of the 2011 revolution.

United States | Access to Information

As false US election narratives multiply, several promising initiatives are working to defend the democratic process

The yearslong effort to sow doubt about America’s generally free and fair elections poses real risks for the 2024 balloting.

Naseem Tarawnah

Reyhana Masters (Africa), Laura Vidal (Americas), Mong Palatino (Asia & Pacific), Cathal Sheerin (Europe & Central Asia), Naseem Tarawnah (MENA)

PO Box 61041 Eglinton/Dufferin RO
Toronto, ON, Canada, M6E 3S0