International Day of Democracy

International Day of Democracy is annually held on September 15 to raise public awareness about democracy. Various activities and events are held around the world to promote democracy on this date.

This year the key focus has been given on strengthening democratic resilience. According to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, “Let us commit to safeguarding the principles of equality, participation and solidarity, so that we can better weather the storm of future crises.”

The UN general assembly decided on November 8, 2007, to make September 15 as the annual date to observe the International Day of Democracy. The International Day of Democracy was first celebrated in 2008. The UN general assembly recognized that the year 2008 marked the 20th anniversary of the first International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, which gave people a chance to focus on promoting and consolidating democracy worldwide.

This day is celebrated on an international platform to identify and introspect on the features that are straining the promotion of democracy. Celebrations vary across different corners of the world. Both governments associated and NGOs hold special events to promote democracy initiatives.