According to the UN, artificial intelligence and so-called electronic or digital governments have an important role to play in improving people's access to information in a digital world.

In addition, artificial intelligence helps to close the digital divide between the poor and the rich by providing citizens with tailored access. With this, the public and information sector can also provide services faster and more efficiently than in the past.

Another advantage of digitized governments is transparency and accessibility. However, these steps also raise questions about fundamental rights and the ethical use of artificial intelligence by public entities.

With artificial intelligence using citizens' data, how can people's privacy be preserved? And how can one protect oneself or choose what information to access and what ethical principles to adopt?

These are some of the questions asked at the Global Conference in Tashkent marking the 2022 edition of the International Day for Universal Access to Information.

This topic covers both the benefits and risks of digital governments and artificial intelligence. At the event, policy guidelines for the use of information by the public sector will be presented and a declaration reaffirming the right to information that benefits citizens in their choices should also be approved.

When voters know how they are governed, they can demand accountability from their leaders. UNESCO, which organizes the celebrations, reminds us that information is power and everyone has the right to seek and receive information in inclusive and healthy societies.

The UN agency recalls that the media play a crucial role in informing the public on issues of common interest, but press professionals depend on the ability to seek and receive information to perform their duties.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information was created by Unesco and declared by the General Assembly in 2019. (news.un)