International Day of Democracy
Afghanistan, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Portugal, Senegal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Türkiye, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Zambia
About
International Day of Democracy, observed on September 15, celebrates the values that help people shape their communities and countries. Established by the United Nations, the day highlights democracy as more than a form of government—it is a commitment to participation, equality, human rights, freedom of expression, and the rule of law.
It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of inclusive civic engagement and institutions that listen and respond to the people they serve. On September 15, individuals can mark the observance by learning about democratic principles, taking part in community discussions, supporting informed voting, and encouraging respectful dialogue across differences.
History
The **International Day of Democracy** is observed annually on **September 15**. The United Nations General Assembly established the observance through Resolution 62/7, adopted in 2007, inviting governments, UN bodies, and civil society organizations to mark the day by promoting and strengthening democratic principles. The first official observance took place on September 15, 2008.
The date has a connection to the parliamentary history of democracy. On September 15, 1997, the Inter-Parliamentary Union adopted the *Universal Declaration on Democracy*, a document affirming democracy as a system grounded in popular participation, human rights, the rule of law, and accountable institutions. The United Nations later selected September 15 for its international observance, helping give the principles expressed in that declaration broader global recognition.
Over time, the day has developed from a formal anniversary into an opportunity to examine the condition of democracy worldwide. Governments, parliaments, schools, community organizations, and international institutions use September 15 to discuss elections, political participation, freedom of expression, civic education, equality, and the protection of human rights. Its themes and activities have also increasingly addressed challenges such as political exclusion, misinformation, declining public trust, corruption, and threats to democratic institutions.
Culturally, the International Day of Democracy emphasizes that democracy is not limited to voting or to the work of governments. It depends on the continuing participation of citizens and on institutions that respect pluralism, transparency, and accountability. By observing September 15, communities are encouraged to recognize democratic achievements while also considering how inclusive and responsive their own political systems are. The observance reflects the United Nations’ broader view that democracy, human rights, and sustainable development are closely connected. ([National Today](https://nationaltoday.com/international-day-of-democracy/))