About Global Media and Information Literacy Week

DESCRIPTION:

The UN General Assembly, recognizing the substantial digital divide and data inequalities across and within nations, declared the commemoration of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week in 2021. The initiative aims to promote the dissemination of factual, timely, accessible, multilingual, and science-based information and to enhance digital competencies.


Given the complex ecosystem of media messages, it is critical for the public to possess media and information literacy competencies to navigate digital landscapes effectively and contribute to societal discourse. Global MIL Week is an annual celebration that reviews and highlights progress towards achieving "Media and Information Literacy for All."


MIL is crucial because the quality of information we engage with shapes our perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes. As access to information and communication increases dramatically worldwide, it's essential to navigate and critically assess content effectively online and offline. MIL helps answer questions about accessing, critically assessing, using, and contributing to content wisely, understanding online and offline rights, acknowledging the ethical issues of information use, and engaging with media and ICTs to promote equality, intercultural and interreligious dialogue, peace, freedom of expression, and access to information.


 UNESCO supports the development of MIL competencies through capacity-building resources, policy guidelines, curricula development, and assessment frameworks.