Vice President Opens Global Conversation on the Right to Access Information

Sierra Leone opened a global conversation on access to information, hosting the 17th International Conference of Information Commissioners and the UNESCO International Day for Universal Access to Information. The event brought information commissioners, journalists, civil society groups, and stakeholders worldwide together under the theme, "Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder."

Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh keynote address said Sierra Leone journey toward greater information access reflects the country's democratic progress. Recalling days when citizens had limited access and journalists faced restrictions, he said the country has made significant progress. "Access to information gives citizens a voice, particularly young people, enabling policy debate and engagement," the Vice President said.

Information and Civic Education Minister Chernor Bah described Sierra Leone as a country whose history is deeply connected to the idea of freedom. Conference provides opportunity strengthening freedom digital age while addressing challenges of artificial intelligence and false information. "We are proudly freedom-loving people," he said, calling public right know protected.

Right Access Information Sierra Leone Chairman Information Commissioner Dr Ibrahim Seaga Shaw described the conference as an important moment for Sierra Leone and Africa. Rapid digital platform growth made information accessible but created accuracy and trust challenges. He called for stronger cooperation to promote information integrity, ensuring citizens can access reliable public information.

UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, Mariya Gabriel, said the world now has more information than ever; the real challenge is knowing its trustworthiness. Access to information allows citizens to verify claims, journalists to check facts, and governments to remain accountable. "Access to information and information integrity are two sides of the same coin," she said, calling for greater efforts making right information reality people everyday lives.