The International Day of Democracy is being commemorted annually on September 15 since 2008. Background 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. 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 United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) that plays a crucial role in advancing democratic values across the globe anchors the global celebration. What is Democracy For several years, the UN General Assembly and the former Commission on Human Rights endeavoured to draw on international human rights instruments to promote a common understanding of the principles and values of democracy. As a result, in 2000, the Commission recommended a series of legislative, institutional and practical measures to consolidate democracy. Moreover, in 2002, the Commission declared the following as essential elements of democracy: Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms Freedom of association Freedom of expression and opinion Access to power and its exercise in accordance with the rule of law The holding of periodic free and fair elections by universal suffrage and by secret ballot as the expression of the will of the people A pluralistic system of political parties and organizations The separation of powers The independence of the judiciary Transparency and accountability in public administration Free, independent and pluralistic media Theme for 2026 - When every voice counts, democracy delivers Governance systems can create meaningful opportunities for people to influence the decisions that affect their lives. Through dialogue, collaboration, and working to understand different points of view we ensure that no one is left behind. The International Day of Democracy 2026 emphasizes the importance of bringing together people from across societies to enrich decision making, foster trust, and build more peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies. It highlights how deliberative democracy can foster greater agency and ownership by bringing diverse voices into decision-making. Today, we face a world of deepening division. Conflicts are multiplying, trust is eroding, and the social contract between citizens and their governments is being undermined. Democracy is more than elections. Democracy is a daily practice of ensuring human rights, the rule of law, and the meaningful participation of all people across civic and political life. It thrives through dialogue, collaboration, and working to understand different points of view — including civil society. This year’s focus on deliberative democratic processes reminds us of the importance of bringing together people from across societies to enrich decision making, foster trust, and build more peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies. Today and every day, let us recommit to ensuring every voice counts, and that democracy delivers the peace, dignity and inclusion that every society needs and deserves. Source: United Nations