International Democracy Day, September 15th.
International Democracy Day is celebrated annually on September 15th and seeks to draw attention to the need to defend the principles of inclusion, freedom, equal treatment of individuals, peace and sustainable development.
The establishment of democracy is an objective and a long process, only possible to be achieved through the participation and support of the international community, civil society and individuals.
The theme chosen for the year 2023 is “Empowering the Next Generation”. It focuses on the essential role of young people in promoting democracy and ensuring their voices are included in decisions that have a profound impact on their world.
Democracy is a fundamental pillar for strong, inclusive and peaceful societies. It guarantees freedom, promotes sustainable development and protects the rights and dignity of all citizens.
This Day was proclaimed in Resolution 62/7 adopted at the UN General Assembly on December 13, 2007.
Current Challenges
One of the challenges we currently face is the threat to democracy. Factors such as the spread of misinformation online, the rise of populism and the harmful effects of climate change have put democracy at risk.
To combat these threats, it is essential that all citizens, including young people, have the opportunity to actively participate in decisions that affect their lives. The climate crisis is one of the biggest challenges facing democracy.
Climate change directly affects the physical environment, causing food insecurity, forced migration, water scarcity, and extreme weather events that impact communities and voters.
Young people have demonstrated deep concern about the climate crisis, participating in large-scale demonstrations and calling for climate justice. They understand that they will be most affected by the actions of previous generations.
Empowering the Next Generation
In this context, the United Nations recognizes the importance of empowering young people to lead global issues. The Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy for Youth brings together Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals, a group of 17 changemakers who play a key role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Additionally, the Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change ensures that the voices of young climate activists are heard by sharing strategies to promote climate action.
The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) also plays a crucial role in financing projects that empower civil society, promote human rights and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes, including young people.
Recognize Threats
This International Democracy Day is an opportunity to celebrate the promise that democracy holds for societies around the world. However, it is also an occasion to recognize the threats it faces, such as the spread of misinformation that poisons public discourse and undermines trust in institutions.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, and democracy depends on protecting this right. Ensuring that the voices of all citizens, especially young people, are heard is essential to strengthening democracy and addressing the challenges facing the world.
On this International Democracy Day, it is time to unite generations and work together to build a more just and inclusive world, where democracy is preserved and enhanced for the benefit of all. After all, democracy is a universally recognized ideal that must be defended and promoted with determination and passion.
Speech by the UN Secretary General
“Democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights are the pillars of robust, inclusive and peaceful societies. These principles ensure freedom, promote sustainable development and protect the dignity and rights of each person.
On International Democracy Day, we celebrate the promise these principles hold for societies and recognize the many threats they face in this time of tension and turmoil. Civic space is progressively shrinking.
Misinformation and the spread of false information are contaminating public discourse, polarizing communities and undermining trust in institutions. This year’s theme, “Empowering the Next Generation,” focuses on the critical role of children and youth in protecting democracy now and in the future.
It is not enough to just listen to children and young people. It is imperative to support them with significant investments in education, skills development and lifelong learning. We must safeguard their human rights and promote gender equality.
Furthermore, it is essential to expand the active participation of young people at all levels of decision-making processes. On this day of great importance, let us unite with all generations and work together to build a fairer world for all people.” – António Guterres.
Documents
Resolution 62/7 adopted at the UN General Assembly on International Democracy Day | UN [en]
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See also:
September 8: International Literacy Day
August 31 is the Day of Afrodescendants
29 August: International Day Against Nuclear Tests
23 August: International Day in Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
20th of July is World Chess Day
International Nelson Mandela Day: Honoring the Ideas of a Great Leader
The International Day of Yoga Is on the Solstice
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
June 1st. Children's Day of Milk and Fathers
May 25th is not Africa Day it's World Day
May 22: International Day for Biological Diversity
May 17: World Telecommunications and Information Society Day, but not only
The International Day of Light and the celebration of life
3 May: World Press Freedom Day
April 30th is International Jazz Day
28 April: World Day for Safety and Health at Work
24 April: International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace
April 1st is April Fools' Day dead?
March 27th is World Theater Day
March 23: Southern African Liberation Day
The extreme weather of World Weather Day
World Water Day is celebrated on March 22
March 21: The day of the year with the most ephemeris
March 20th is the International Day of Happiness
March 19 is Father's Day and World Craftsman's Day
February 14th is not just Valentine's Day
February 14th. Valentine's Day. Why?
February 13th is World Radio Day
11 February is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Picture: © 2023 Francisco Lopes-Santos / DeepAI
