International Day of Democracy

The  UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF)  funds projects that empower civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. The large majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organizations -- both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization . In this way, UNDEF plays a novel and unique role in complementing the UN's other, more traditional work -- the work with Governments -- to strengthen democratic governance around the world.

Democratic values are the foundational principles that support a system of government and society where people have fundamental freedoms, participate in free and fair elections, and are treated with equality and justice. Key values include human rights , equality, freedom o86f expression, the rule of law, political accountability, and the right to participate in government through processes like elections. Core Democratic Values : Respect for Human Rights: A commitment to upholding the inherent dignity and fundamental freedoms of all individuals. Equality : The principle that all people are equal and deserve fair and equal treatment, regardless of their background or identity. Fundamental Freedom : This includes the freedoms of speech, expression, religion, assembly, and the right to associate with others. Rule of Law : A system where laws are just, applied fairly to everyone, and where those in power are held accountable to them, preventing arbitrary rule. Free and Fair Elections : ...

Democracy  provides an environment for the protection and effective realization of human rights. The United Nations promotes good governance, monitors elections, supports civil society to strengthen democratic institutions and accountability , ensures self-determination in decolonized countries , and assists in the drafting of new constitutions in post-conflict nations .  

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. But around the world, there are governments and those wielding power who find many ways to obstruct it. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” The link between democracy and press freedom is also enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights .

The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world . Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.