global equity and access to knowledge as human rights vikas kumari

Abstract

In the contemporary digital era, access to knowledge has emerged as a fundamental component of human rights and social justice. This paper examines the concept of digital justice in relation to human rights, emphasizing the urgent need to ensure equitable access to information and knowledge across the globe. Despite rapid technological advancements, significant disparities persist between and within nations due to factors such as economic inequality, limited digital infrastructure, language barriers, and restrictive information policies. These challenges disproportionately affect marginalized communities, reinforcing existing social and economic inequalities.

The study adopts a human rights-based approach to analyze how access to knowledge can be recognized as an essential right in the digital age. It explores the role of governments, international organizations, and private stakeholders in bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive knowledge systems. Furthermore, the paper highlights the importance of open access initiatives, digital literacy, and policy reforms in fostering a more equitable global knowledge society.

By integrating theoretical perspectives with contemporary case examples, this research underscores that achieving digital justice is crucial for empowering individuals, enhancing democratic participation, and promoting sustainable development. The paper concludes that ensuring equitable access to knowledge worldwide is not only a technological challenge but also a moral and legal imperative central to the realization of universal human rights.

Key words: human rights, social justice, access to knowledge, digital age.