A new statement from the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions highlights the varied and parallel threats to the efforts of libraries to ensure that everyone can engage in, and benefit from, access to knowledge. 

The past year has seen both significant steps forward in recognition of the importance of knowledge in advancing a better world, and significant attacks against this.

We have seen the UN Pact for the Future underline the need for effective management of knowledge and information in order to achieve progress, while this year’s UN High-Level Political Forum sets out the need for evidence- and science-based policy-making in its theme.

Yet we have also seen governments and non-state groups intensify efforts to interfere in library collection policies, close or defund libraries and library support institutions, restrict access to databases and delete content, and impose other obligations that put libraries’ relationships with their users at risk.

In parallel, growing private control over what libraries and their users can do with digital content through contract terms undermines the ability of our institutions to achieve their missions.

These developments all stand in the way of IFLA’s commitment to securing access to effective library services for all as a route towards sustainable development and the fulfilment of human rights.

IFLA’s new Statement on Defending Inclusive Knowledge Societies, agreed by the Governing Board on 9 July 2025, raises the alarm about this, setting out recommendations for libraries, governments and other players alike.

It highlights:

  • The value of steps to safeguard independence and professional control of services
  • The urgency of evidence-gathering and advocacy as well as collaborative responses
  • The importance of a proactive and comprehensive approach to upholding the right of freedom of access to knowledge and information
  • The need for ongoing support for the development of open science
  • The imperative of monitoring and upholding commitments to inclusive knowledge societies

IFLA will be sharing this statement with all members and, in line with the views of the Governing Board, returning to it in future to monitor the evolution of the trends highlighted.