International Day of Democracy is observed on September 15 every year, for which the world comes together to honour and uphold the values of democracy, which is considered to be one of the most popular forms of governance in the world.

The day signifies the importance of democracy and democratic forms of government.

Democracy is a form of governance that needs active participation from citizens, national governments, the international community and civil society. Democracy is the concept of a collective effort that aims for the well-being of all citizens. It is built to provide equal treatment and participation to all across all strata of society.

The International Day of Democracy helps people around the world to learn and review the concept of democracy. It is celebrated to educate people on issues of concern and to mobilise political will and resources to address problems across the democratic countries.

International Day of Democracy 2023: History and Significance

The idea behind establishing the day is based on the Universal Declaration on Democracy, which was adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union on September 15, 1997. The Inter-Parliamentary Union is an international organisation of national Parliaments. The resolution of observing the day was passed at the UN General Assembly.

In November 2007, the United Nations decided to support the new and restored democracies all around the globe. The Inter-Parliamentary Union then decided to observe the day on September 15 to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration on Democracy on this day.

The primary aim of celebrating the day is to uphold the principles of democracy.

International Day of Democracy 2023: Theme

Every year, the events for the celebration are organised based on a specific theme that can protect the cause. Last year the theme for International Day of Democracy was, “Protecting press freedom for democracy”. The theme focused on the importance of media freedom in a democratic nation which helps in maintaining peace.

However, the theme for this year’s International Day of Democracy is yet to be announced.