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September 15, 2016 is observed as the “International Day of Democracy“ every year. Presently, 193 nations, all members of the UN, celebrate this day through different programs, discussions, and cultural events. The motto behind dedicating a day, especially in celebrating democracy, is just letting everybody be aware of the importance of democracy.
On August 8, 2007, the UN General Assembly announced that it would observe the “International Day of Democracy” on the 15th of every year. Since then, every year on September 15th, the day has been observed with great enthusiasm as the International Day of Democracy.
On September 15, 2015, all the member countries of the UN adopted a target for 2030, whereby they vowed to end extreme poverty and eradicate injustice from this world by 2030. This year too, all the member countries have decided to accept the same theme, which will be merged with the target taken by the UNDP in the form of ‘Sustainable Development Goal 16’. It is expected that all the member countries will participate in a discussion on the theme, which will be organized by the Inter-parliamentary Union on September 15th, 2016 to celebrate the International Day of Democracy and also review how the nations are adopting different developmental programs to come out of extreme poverty and other related issues.
It is a huge target for the UN as a whole when the entire world is witnessing the rapid expansion of religious radicalism and extreme economic imbalance. Common people are suffering everywhere, but they have no idea that democracy has given them many fundamental rights and their governments have provided them many facilities to enjoy those fundamental rights. The purpose of the day is to inform people of their democratic rights and responsibilities.
The four primary aspects of democracy are, as follows:
Elected Form of Government: In a democracy, the public elects a government. Participation in the election process is the fundamental right of every eligible citizen.
The Rule of Law: Democracy promotes the rule of law in a country. Legislatures can’t do anything by violating the laws. Common people are also bound to abide by the laws.
Respect of Human Rights: People are the most important subject in democracy. Rules and regulations are created to provide them with better living standards. The government is there to serve them, not vice versa.
Freedom of the Press: This is another important aspect of democracy. The press should be given to get news and convey the same to the common people. Since people elect a government in a democracy, they have the fundamental right to know everything and express their own opinions.
The International Day of Democracy is observed keeping these aspects in view.
The UN assembly has asked every parliamentarian, politician, educator, top government official, and other public figure to come forward and observe the day with the common people. Everyone needs to have a basic knowledge of democracy. The purpose of democracy is lost if most of the citizens of a country have no idea regarding their rights and responsibilities. Discussions, seminars, and cultural events are arranged to commemorate the day. Posters and pamphlets are placed in public places and public buildings to aware common people on their democratic rights and responsibilities. Besides government and non-government organizations organize public events and general awareness programs to make the day an important one for every democracy-loving people.
Democracy is the ultimate form of government that can provide sustainable economic and social development to the citizens of a country. It is true that despite the democratic form of government, many citizens in many countries don’t have basic knowledge of their fundamental rights and responsibilities. The International Day of Democracy 2016 will be observed to let everybody know what democracy is and what are the fundamental rights and responsibilities of every citizen in a democratic country.
The International Day of Democracy, observed on September 15th every year, is a global initiative to raise awareness about the significance of democracy. It serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles of democracy and its importance in ensuring the rights and responsibilities of citizens worldwide.
The United Nations General Assembly declared September 15th as the International Day of Democracy on August 8, 2007. Since then, it has been observed annually by all 193 member nations of the UN.
The day is marked by various activities, including discussions, seminars, cultural events, and awareness programs organized by governments, non-governmental organizations, and public figures. These initiatives aim to engage citizens and enhance their understanding of democracy and its principles.
Individuals can contribute by educating themselves and others about democracy, actively participating in civic activities, and advocating for democratic principles and values in their communities and beyond.
Democracy provides a framework for inclusive decision-making, fostering social and economic development that benefits all citizens. By promoting accountability, transparency, and citizen participation, democracy contributes to the creation of resilient and prosperous societies.
