International Day of Democracy 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

In 2007, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted a resolution designating September 15 as the International Day of Democracy.

The 15th of September, International Day of Democracy, provides us with the opportunity to celebrate and value our democratic society. People who live in a free society tend to take their liberties for granted. When freedom is absent, however, life presents insurmountable obstacles that are frequently incomprehensible. Today, let’s reflect on the history of democracy around the globe, give thanks to those who influenced the development of our government, and search for ways to promote and protect the democracy in our own country.

The background of International Day of Democracy

In 2007, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted a resolution designating September 15 as the International Day of Democracy. The purpose of this day is to promote the role of government in maintaining open democracy among all UN Charter members and to commemorate the system of values that democracy promotes, which gives citizens the power to make decisions in all aspects of life.

In their endeavours to promote democratic societies throughout the world, the United Nations serves a variety of functions, such as monitoring elections, working to strengthen democratic institutions and accountability, and assisting nations recovering from conflict to draught their own constitution.

Since the origin of democracy in ancient Greece thousands of years ago, the foundation of a democratic society has been the ability of its citizens to participate in the nation’s decision-making process. This can only occur when everyone, regardless of race, gender, or other factors, is permitted to vote, indicating that inclusion and equality are also essential to the success of a democratic society. In the United States, we have a representative democracy, which means that we elect representatives to vote on our behalf.

As you contemplate on your own freedoms and the current state of democracy in the United States, make a list of the ways you participate in our country’s collective decision-making and support democratic ideals.

Activities on International Day of Democracy

Get engaged

Every year, the United Nations organises global events to raise awareness about the practise of democracy. Past topics have included encouraging youth participation in democratic movements, addressing sustainable development, and promoting social civility. Find out more about this year’s theme and events and how you can participate.

Discover political candidates

Voting is an essential part of our civic duty, but we should not go to the polls uninformed. Invest some time today in researching the impending local, state, and federal candidates. Ensure that the candidates for whom you cast your vote share your values, will serve their constituents, and will make decisions that benefit the community. A excellent source to help you become a well-informed citizen is Wise Voter.

Use your legal privileges

You wield great authority as a democratic government official. Democracy is an objective and a process that depends on your participation. It is now simpler than ever to contact representatives, advocate for causes, vote, and make a difference in our unique form of government, thanks to technological advancements.

5 IMPORTANT PEOPLE WHO SHAPE AMERICAN DEMOCRACY

The American revolution was inspired by the influential writings of Thomas Paine. He desired an end to executive tyranny and believed that extending political power to all was the most effective method to accomplish this.

Thomas Jefferson, one of our founding leaders, was regarded as one of the greatest advocates of democracy. The famous phrase “All men are created equal” was included in his Declaration of Independence.

Susan B. Anthony advocated for the democratic principle that all individuals should be permitted to participate. She fought against slavery and for equality and voting rights for women.

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most prominent figures in the civil rights movement in the United States. He fought for the ideals of genuine democracy and extending the right to vote to the African-American community.

William Penn, a Quaker from England who believed in religious and political liberty, was an early advocate for the union of the original American colonies.