By : Neha Dhyani
Updated : Mar 8, 2023, 13:58
International day of democracy is celebrated on 15 September every year to highlight the importance and relevance of democracy. It is also an occasion to review the state of democracy in different parts of the world. Democracy as an form of governance is considered ideal as it its core values are equality and freedom for all. The United Nations announces a theme every year on the International Day of Democracy.
United Nations, an intergovernmental organization, also recognizes several democratic principles and mentions them in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This points out at the global importance of democratic values and the significance of International day of democracy.
The International Day of Democracy was established through the resolution passed in 2007 by the UN General Assembly. Although the resolution was passed in 2007, the thought of celebrating democracy day was ideated in 1988. The word ‘democracy’ originates from ‘dēmokratía’, a Greek word, which means rule of the people. In a democracy. people of the country participate in the judicial and legislative decision-making process. Although there are various types of democracy, the values of freedom and equality are common in them.
The President of the Philippines started the International Conferences on the New and Restored Democracies. In 2006, there were more discussions on the re-establishment of the fundamental principles of democracy during the ICNRD conference in Qatar. Since then, Qatar has been leading and promoting the resolution for recognizing the International Day of Democracy.
International day of democracy is observed on September 15. Democratic form of government is the most preferred as it ensures that the people of the country can relay their opinions through their elected representatives. Democracy day was accepted after the United Nations passed it through a resolution in 2007. It was first celebrated in 2008. Here is why this day is considered as significant:
Democracy is the most preferred type of governance. The United Nations tries to emphasize the importance and adoption of democracy through International day of democracy. Here are the themes that the UN set for democracy day in previous years:
Year | Theme | Additional Information and Events Organised |
2008 | Celebration of the First International Day of Democracy | The day marked the first year of celebrating the International Day of Democracy Events included television programs in Namibia Open doors day in Indonesia Debates and exhibitions |
2009 | Democracy and Political Tolerance | Global online video competition Over 900 contestants participated from 95 countries |
2010 | Democracy and Millenium Development Goals | UN General Assembly debate on the theme The UN Democracy Fund reflected on the challenges and spoke on their commitment to UNDEF (United Nations Democracy Fund) |
2011 | Peace and Democracy: Make Your Voice Heard | Short film featuring Traditional Peace Bell Ceremony |
2012 | Democracy Education | Citizens of the nation were made aware of democratic societies through questions like: Why should I vote? What are my rights? How can I influence my leaders? |
2013 | Strengthening Voices for Democracy | Highlighting the importance of people's voices |
2014 | Engaging Young People in Democracy | Focused on challenges and opportunities of young people in the democratic process International Day of Democracy was promoted in 162 countries through its parliament members |
2015 | Space for Civil Society | Discussions, debates, and video messages from the UN secretary |
2016 | Democracy and Sustainable Development: the 2030 Agenda | The day was dedicated to making plans for the development of sustainable goals for a better future |
2017 | In Defence of Democracy | The Inter-Parliamentary Union discussed international standards for guiding the parliaments, governments, and the people |
2018 | Athens Democracy Forum | The UN Democracy Fund organized the forum |
2019 | Inclusion and Participation: Foundation of Democracy | Video message from Mr Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General Presentations The event included panel presentations and discussions that closely looked into the participation and inclusion of all |
2020 | Democracy Day Amidst the Pandemic | Online Event |
The International day of democracy 2021 theme was “Strengthening democratic resilience in the face of future crises". The democracy day celebrations for this year focused greatly on the theme. After the Covid-19 crises, the need for a democratic framework in all the sectors was amplified.
To celebrate the International day of democracy, many organizations, schools, NGOs, and individuals conduct various contests. Knowing some quotes that catch the essence of the day can come really handy if you wish to participate in any of such contests or events. Find some international day of democracy quotes below:
International Day of Democracy is celebrated on 15 September every year. This day highlights the importance of democracy and also review the state of democracy in different nations of the world.
International Day of Democracy is celebrated to recognize the importance of democracy and encourage governments worldwide to adopt democracy. The day is celebrated on 15 September each year.
The International Day of Democracy is celebrated by carrying out worldwide conferences, debates, discussions, and competitions that highlight the importance of democracy.
The International Day of Democracy 2021 theme was “Strengthening democratic resilience in the face of future crises”. This theme was focused on instilling a dedication towards democratic values even at a time of crisis.
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