The International Day of Democracy is celebrated around the world on 15 September each year. It was established through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy.

• The International Day of Democracy 2022 focused on highlighting the key role played by media freedom in safeguarding the democracy, maintaining peace and achieving 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

• It was observed with the theme “Protecting Press Freedom for Democracy”.

• This is significant as, according to the UNESCO, 85 per cent of the global population are experiencing a deterioration in press freedom in their country over the past five years.

Background

The International Day of Democracy was created after a resolution was passed by the UN General Assembly in the year 2007. This UNGA resolution sought to strengthen and consolidate democracy. The International Day of Democracy was celebrated for the first time in 2008.