Every year September 15 is observed globally as International Day of Democracy. The day provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy and aims at promoting and upholding the principles of democracy in the world. Democracy is not only a goal but a process itself that requires complete participation of individuals, national governing bodies as well as international community and civil society. It is only through everyone’s contribution that the ideal of democracy be made into a reality and enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.
International Day of Democracy Date
Below mentioned are the dates for International Day of Democracy for the next 4 years.
| Event | Date | Day |
| International Day of Democracy 2024 | September 15, 2024 | Sunday |
| International Day of Democracy 2025 | September 15, 2025 | Monday |
| International Day of Democracy 2026 | September 15, 2026 | Tuesday |
| International Day of Democracy 2027 | September 15, 2027 | Wednesday |
International Day of Democracy Overview
| Event | International Day of Democracy |
| Date | September 15, 2024 |
| Day | Sunday |
| Declared by | United Nations |
| Purpose | To uphold and promote the principles of democracy. |
International Day of Democracy Significance
The essential elements of democracy include values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding genuine elections periodically. Through democracy, human rights are protected and realized efficiently which is very important for republic countries. With the purpose of upholding these elements and principles, it was decided by the United Nations in its General Assembly held in 2007 that 15 September will be observed as International Day of Democracy.
In regard of this, International Day of Democracy is celebrated every year with great fervor. The UN invites all member states and organizations to commemorate this important day in an appropriate manner that contributes to raising public awareness.
UN & Democracy
Democracy is one of the core values and principles of the United Nations and a universally recognized ideal. Only with democracy, an environment where human rights are realized and enjoyed is possible. To strengthen the democratic institutions, the UN promotes good governance, monitors elections, supports civil society, ensures self-determination in decolonized countries and assists in making new constitutions in post-conflict nations.
History of International Day of Democracy Observation
The resolution to adopt International Day of Democracy was put forward and promoted by Qatar. On November 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the resolution with the title “Support by United Nations system of efforts of governments to promote and consolidate a new or restored democracy” and encouraged governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy.
The first International Day of Democracy was thus observed on 15 September 2008 with numerous parliamentary events held worldwide.
Celebration of International Day of Democracy
Governments all around the world observe the International Day of Democracy with special functions and events. These include photo competitions, workshops for children, live televised debates, radio phone-ins and meetings with civil society organizations. Any individual can participate in these events to enjoy their democracy and its international celebration. Other ways in which you can celebrate this day is by learning more about democracy and human rights and knowing the right way to utilize them. Make some time to learn about your local elections and candidates so that you can make an informed decision and play your part in democracy. Teach others about democracy and the right that they enjoy so that they also become an informed citizen of the society and be able to enjoy democracy and its worldwide celebration.
International Day of Democracy Theme
2024: N/A
2023: Empowering the next generation
2022: “the importance of media freedom to democracy, peace, and delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals”
2021: “Strengthening democratic resilience in the face of future crises”
2020: Democracy Day Amidst the Pandemic
2019: Inclusion and Participation: Foundation of Democracy
2018: Athens Democracy Forum
2017: In Defence of Democracy
2016: Democracy and Sustainable Development: the 2030 Agenda
2015: Space for Civil Society
2014: Engaging Young People in Democracy
2013: Strengthening Voices for Democracy
2012: Democracy Education
2011: Peace and Democracy: Make Your Voice Heard
2010: Democracy and Millenium Development Goals
2009: Democracy and Political Tolerance
FAQs
Indeed there are certain countries where the people do not enjoy democracy but live under absolute monarchy. These countries are- Brunei, Eswatini, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Vatican City.
In constitutional monarchy, there is a monarch who functions as the head of state whereas in democracy, the head of state is a person elected by the eligible citizens. The monarch is sovereign in a constitutional monarchy whereas in democracy, the people remain sovereign.
Empowering the next generation
