International Day of Democracy 2024 (15th September)

International Day of Democracy 2024

International Day of Democracy is celebrated on September 15 every year. Democracy is a system of government in which the people hold power and elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. It is based on the principles of equality, liberty, and justice. Democracy is essential for human rights and development.

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International Day of Democracy Theme 2024

As of today, the theme for the International Day of Democracy 2024 has not been announced.

The theme for the International Day of Democracy in 2023 was “Empowering the Next Generation.”

Young people are the current and future custodians of democracy

In a strong democratic society, an engaged and well-educated electorate is essential.
Creating an environment where young people believe their voices matter is crucial.
Today’s youth face numerous challenges. This includes the spread of online misinformation and disinformation, the rise of populism, and the destabilizing effects of climate change.
It’s imperative that everyone can actively participate in decisions that shape their present and future lives.
Democracies worldwide face ongoing threats from unresolved conflicts, the growing climate crisis, and financial instability.

Given the potential harm caused by the proliferation of false information, this year’s International Day of Democracy focuses on “Empowering the Next Generation,” highlighting the critical role of children and young people in safeguarding democracy for today and the future.

Other Important Days in September 2024

What does Democracy mean

Democracy is a system of government in which the people hold power and elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. It is based on the principles of equality, liberty, and justice. Democracy is essential for human rights and development.

The word “democracy” comes from the Greek words “demos” (people) and “kratos” (power). It literally means “people power.”

There are many different types of democracies, but they all share some common features. These include:

Free and fair elections
The rule of law
The protection of human rights
An independent judiciary
A free media
A civil society that is free to participate in the political process

Democracy is not perfect, but it is the best system of government we have. It allows people to have a voice in their governance and to hold their leaders accountable.

History of International Day of Democracy

The International Day of Democracy was established by the UN General Assembly in 2007 to promote and raise awareness of democracy. The date, September 15, was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration on Democracy by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on September 15, 1997.

The Universal Declaration on Democracy is a document that sets out the basic principles of democracy. It states that democracy is “a system of government based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation, through free and fair periodic elections, in the composition of their representative government.”

The International Day of Democracy is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of democracy and to reaffirm our commitment to democratic values. It is also a day to call for action to protect and strengthen democracy around the world.

Significance of International Day of Democracy

The International Day of Democracy serves as an opportunity to assess the global state of democracy. Democracy is not only a goal but also an ongoing process, and it can only be fully realized with the active participation and support of the international community, national governments, civil society, and individuals. The aim is to make democracy a reality that can be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, explicitly outlined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, across the world, there are governments and individuals in positions of power who employ various methods to curtail this right.

Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”

The connection between democracy and press freedom is also recognized in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Upholding these principles is crucial for the preservation and advancement of democracy worldwide.

15th September 2024 Special Day

On September 15, 2024, the world marks the International Day of Democracy, a global celebration of a system where people hold power and elect representatives. Democracy, anchored in principles of equality, liberty, and justice, remains essential for human rights and development. This special day prompts reflection on the enduring values that democracy upholds, encouraging nations to strengthen democratic foundations, and ensuring a future where the voice of the people continues to shape governance and foster progress.

Shubham Mittal

Shubham Mittal is a renowned current affairs writer and expert in government exam preparation, inspiring readers with insightful articles and guiding aspirants with his expertise.

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