International Day of Democracy marks global reflection on democratic values

The world observes the International Day of Democracy on September 15, a date established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. The day commemorates the 1997 adoption of the Universal Declaration of Democracy by the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making to foster trust and build resilient societies. The day serves as a global platform to reflect on democratic values, human rights, and the necessity of citizen participation beyond mere voting.

However, global trends indicate significant democratic backsliding. Reports suggest that political freedom has been deteriorating since 2012, with nearly 40% of the world's population living under authoritarian regimes. While some data suggests a stabilization of democracy levels in 2025, challenges such as polarization, disinformation, and the erosion of civil liberties remain critical concerns for democratic institutions worldwide.