IFLA Launches Lyon Declaration on Access to Information and Development

0
172

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) in August, launched the Lyon Declaration on Access to Information and Development.  The Declaration launched at the IFLA World Library and Information Congress in Lyon, France is an advocacy document that will be used to positively influence the content of the United Nations post-2015 development agenda. It was drafted by IFLA and a number of strategic partners in the library and development communities between January and May 2014.

The Declaration states clearly that access to information supports development by empowering people to exercise their civic, political, economic, social and cultural rights. It will also empower people to learn and apply new skills; make decisions and participate in an active and engaged civil society; and create community-based solutions to development challenges.

It noted that access to information will ensure accountability, transparency, good governance, and empowerment and also measure progress on public and private commitments on sustainable development.

The Declaration calls upon United Nations Member States to make international commitment through the post-2015 development agenda to ensure that everyone has access to, and is able to understand, use and share the information that is necessary to promote sustainable development and democratic societies.