International Day of Democracy: History, theme, significance and more

International Day of Democracy: International Day of Democracy is observed on September 15 every year. The day is celebrated to uphold and honour the values of democracy in the world.

Democracy is a form of government in which governments are elected directly by the people. 

International Day of Democracy: Significance
The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. The primary objective of celebrating this day is to uphold the principles of Democracy. The ideal of democracy can only be realised as a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere with the full participation and support of the international community, national governing bodies, civil society, and individuals.

International Day of Democracy: Theme
Democracy Day events are organised on a particular theme every year. This year the theme is "Protecting Press Freedom for Democracy". According to the UN, the theme will focus on the importance of media freedom to democracy, peace, and delivering on sustainable development goals.  

To mark International Democracy Day this year, the UN Office for Partnerships collaborates with the UN Democracy Fund to host a discussion in the SDG studio as part of the SDG Roundtable series.

According to the official UN website, "The conversation will showcase why protecting media freedom is a critical component of a healthy democracy. Moreover, it will propose and discuss solutions for the achievement of SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. You can contribute to this work by sharing the roundtable on 15 September and raising awareness around protecting media freedoms globally."

UNESCO has reported that 85 per cent of the world’s population experienced a decline in press freedom in their country in the past five years.