International Day of Democracy 2023: The 15th of September is International Day of Democracy. This day is an occasion to consider the significance of democracy and work to strengthen democratic institutions worldwide.
Democracy is a form of government in which the people have the ability to elect their leaders and make decisions regarding the administration of their country. It is founded upon the principles of liberty, equality, and fairness.
The democratic system is a fragile institution. To uphold democratic principles necessitates the active participation of citizens and the commitment of leaders. Corruption, inequality, and authoritarian regimes are among the numerous hazards to democracy.
Despite these obstacles, democracy continues to be an indispensable institution for advancing peace, prosperity, and human rights. Democratic nations are more likely to be tranquil and stable, and their economic performance and human development tend to be superior.
What Is International Democracy Day’s Background?
The United Nations General Assembly established this day in 2007 through a resolution titled “Support by the United Nations system to the endeavors of Governments to promote and consolidate new or restored democracies.”
The resolution was unanimously approved, demonstrating the global commitment to democracy. It acknowledges the importance of democracy in promoting peace, prosperity, and human liberties.
The 15th of September was designated to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Democracy. The Universal Declaration of Democracy is a seminal document that establishes the fundamental principles of democracy.
In the summary, the UN notes that the resolution “recognizes the Organization’s important role in providing timely, appropriate, and coherent support to the efforts of governments to accomplish democratization in the context of their development efforts.”
We pledge to uphold freedom of democracy, Constitution for unity, integrity of nation: Kharge
What Importance Does International Democracy Day Hold?
International Day of Democracy is significant for the following reasons:
- Consider the state of democracy throughout the globe. This includes identifying the challenges democracy confronts as well as its progress.
- Increase democratic institutions’ strength. By supporting independent media, civil society organizations, and elections, this can be accomplished.
- Honor the accomplishments of democracy. This includes the freedoms and liberties that democracy protects, as well as the contributions to peace, prosperity, and human development that democracy has made.
- Reiterate the commitment to democratic principles. This entails liberty, equality, and justice.
“Empowering the Next Generation” is the theme for International Day of Democracy, which emphasizes on increasing the participation of young people in advancing democracy.
Youth are indispensable to the viability of democracy. They will inherit the world we are constructing today, and they will be the most affected by the decisions we make today.
Youth have a distinct perspective on the universe. They are more likely to be receptive to new ideas and solutions and concerned about the long-term consequences of our decisions.
They are also more likely to be connected to the Internet. This provides them with a robust forum for sharing their ideas and mobilizing others.
Democracy enables people to have a say in their futures.
Everyone should be able to meaningfully participate in decisions that will affect their lives now, and in years to come.
Friday is #DemocracyDay. https://t.co/Ng4TCszNce pic.twitter.com/J4OgKWn6aQ
— United Nations (@UN) September 15, 2023
What are the top ten nations according to the Electoral Democracy Index 2023?
In a world where democracy is threatened, numerous nations have demonstrated their commitment to free and fair elections, as well as to other essential elements of electoral democracy, such as freedom of expression, association, and assembly.
Here are the top ten nations based on the Electoral Democracy Index 2023:
- Denmark
- Sweden
- Norway
- Switzerland
- Estonia
- New Zealand
- Belgium
- Ireland
- Costa Rica
- Finland
The Electoral Democracy Index measures the character of electoral democracy across the globe. It is published by the V-Dem Institute, a Swedish research institute affiliated with the University of Gothenburg.
The index evaluates a variety of factors, such as the impartiality of elections, the level of competition between political parties, and media freedom.
High levels of electoral integrity, freedom of expression, and political competition characterize each of these nations.
In addition, they have robust institutions that support democratic government, including independent judiciaries and free media.
According to this report, India is now ranked 108th. This classification is significantly lower than those of Tanzania, Bolivia, Mexico, Singapore, and even Nigeria, which is ranked 91st.
This classification is a wake-up call and a surprise to many. In recent years, India’s democratic institutions have been under sustained attack, from the erosion of press freedom to the rise of Hindu nationalism.
India’s electoral democracy has been weakened by these assaults, making it more susceptible to authoritarian tendencies.
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