World Development Information Day

The World Development Information Day, observed every year on October 24, provides a dedicated moment to draw global attention to development challenges and the vital role of information and communication in solving them. ¹

History of World Development Information Day

In 1972 the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 3038 (XXVII), formally establishing World Development Information Day with the aim of mobilizing public opinion worldwide to focus on development problems and the need for stronger international cooperation. The date chosen—October 24—was selected so that it coincides with United Nations Day and also commemorates the adoption, in 1970, of the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade. From the early years, the intention has been not just to name a day but to emphasize that access to information and the ability to engage in public discourse are essential components of development.

Why is World  Development  Information  Day important?

Often when we think of “development,” we imagine infrastructure, economic growth, or aid—but this day invites us to reflect on something subtler yet profoundly important: how information flows, public awareness, and connectivity shape the possibilities for progress. The world is not only built by roads and institutions but by how well individuals, communities, and nations are informed and empowered to act. On World Development Information Day, we remember that without well‑informed citizens, even the best policies can falter.
In our digital age especially, the theme carries fresh urgency: the “digital divide” and unequal access to technologies mean that some populations are left behind—not just materially, but informationally. This day reminds us that ensuring fair, inclusive access to information and communication is integral to achieving sustainable development.
Here are some human‑scale thoughts on why it matters:

• when people lack access to reliable information, they can’t fully participate in decisions that affect their lives
• having a public that is informed makes international cooperation more meaningful and accountable
• young people with access to technology and information become drivers of innovation and progress
• this day prompts us to consider how our own access to information might be taken for granted, and how we can support those who don’t have it
• recognizing the role of communication highlights that development is more than infrastructure—it’s about capacity, inclusion, voice

How to Observe World Development Information Day

Observing this day can be simple and meaningful. You could start by learning about one key development challenge—poverty, inequality, access to information—and sharing what you discover with friends or colleagues. Listening to the voices of people from different parts of the world, understanding how information—or the lack thereof—affects their lives, is a powerful step. Then you might think about your own role: perhaps you can support a project working to close the connectivity gap, or raise awareness through your networks. It’s also worthwhile to reflect on how information technology is transforming development—and how we can ensure that transformation is inclusive, not exclusive.
Here are some practical and human‑friendly ideas:

• read a short article or watch a video on how access to information affects development in a country you’re curious about
• post something on social media about the importance of information and development, inviting others to reflect
• if you work in education, tech, media or civil society, consider hosting a discussion or workshop on information access in development
• reflect personally: how do you use information and communication technologies for learning or action, and what obstacles might others face in doing the same
• connect with a local NGO or initiative that works on digital inclusion or information access and see how you might support it

World  Development Information Day Dates Table

1. https://www.un.org/en/observances/development-information-day[↩]