International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)

Statement of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions during one minute intervention period. June 24, 2015

Donna Scheeder, President-elect

I am Donna Scheeder, President-elect of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, the global voice of libraries.
I applaud Switzerland’s recommendation regarding country reviews and the need to have them submitted to a common place for public review.
The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) welcomes the Zero Draft and the continuing presence of access to information in the draft. There can be no transparency, accountability or participation without access to information. IFLA encourages the United Nations to further recognize and emphasize the role of access to information and skill to use it as an essential pillar in the transformational agenda for sustainable development.
Access to information is a common principle, as well as a cross-cutting means of supporting the agenda's vision. It is so important that we feel a stronger statement could be made in paragraph 15. We propose that the following language be added: [Increased access to information and knowledge, underpinned by universal literacy, is an essential pillar of sustainable development] [We recognize access to information as a key condition for citizen participation, transparency and accountability]
Thank you for your consideration.


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