The United Nations has designated 15 September as International Day of Democracy to celebrate democracy and its core principles across the globe. The international community first observed this day in 2008 to mark the 20th anniversary of the first International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, providing an opportunity to reaffirm the global commitment to strengthening democratic values. The main objective of this day is to review democratic processes, promote democratization and human rights, and urge governments worldwide to respect citizens’ rights and ensure meaningful participation in democracy. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, democracy is directly linked with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes ensuring public access to information, protecting fundamental freedoms, adhering to national laws and international agreements, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions. International Democracy Day thus serves as a global platform to reinforce democracy, which includes safeguarding a free press and fundamental freedoms now increasingly threatened by censorship and violence.
Democracy is not merely a system of governance but a framework that guarantees the protection of human rights, the rule of law, and active citizen participation in decision-making. In 2024, more than 50 countries—home to nearly half the world’s population—went to the polls, underlining the crucial role of democratic processes in shaping the future of societies worldwide. The observance of International Democracy Day is therefore not symbolic alone; it is a moment to examine how alive democracy remains in its ideal form, and how seriously it is challenged in reality. History bears witness that whenever democracy’s roots have been strong, societies and nations have achieved unprecedented progress. Conversely, when democratic values are undermined, chaos, violence, terrorism, and authoritarian tendencies prevail.
The greatest concern today is that democratic values are being eroded even within countries that identify themselves as democracies. Recent political instability in Nepal, marked by frequent government changes, inconsistent policies, corruption, and neglect of public concerns, reflects how power struggles take precedence over people’s aspirations. Pakistan presents a similar story, where collusion between the military and the ruling elite has hollowed out democratic institutions, while freedom of expression is curtailed and opposition voices suppressed. In Bangladesh, recent protests have highlighted how the centralization of power chokes democracy, as students and ordinary citizens saw their voices silenced. Even in Bhutan, democracy remains fragile, with certain groups retaining dominance over governance. These examples reveal that democracy is far more than holding elections or running a parliament. True democracy ensures protection of civil rights, equal opportunity, transparent governance, and accountability to the people. Whenever leaders disconnect from citizens, institutions lose impartiality, or freedom of expression is curtailed, democracy drifts away from its essence—leading to the global democratic crisis we now witness.
The path to resolving today’s governance crises lies in restoring democratic values. First, political parties themselves must embrace internal democracy, for how can democracy flourish in a nation when parties remain authoritarian within? Second, an independent judiciary, a free press, and robust electoral systems are the backbone of democracy, and must never be compromised. Third, civil society and youth must remain vigilant and active in defending democracy. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Democracy is not a state in which people act like sheep; it is a state in which people are awake.” Indeed, democracy is the best form of governance, but it only succeeds when its key elements—transparency, accountability, equality, and liberty—are practiced in daily life.
Democracy is not simply a system, but a continuous discipline, and its defense is the responsibility of the people even more than the rulers. It is not merely about power structures but is a celebration of life values and human dignity. In democracy, the distinction between ruler and ruled disappears, for the true center of power lies in the people. Its greatest strength is rooted in active citizen participation and dialogue. Where citizens remain silent and surrender responsibility entirely to their rulers, democracy gradually weakens and drifts toward authoritarianism. The soul of democracy lies in responsibility and transparency; if those in power place themselves above the people and drown in corruption and favoritism, it’s very foundations collapse.
The gravest challenge facing democracy today is the erosion of values. Mere external structures and formal processes cannot sustain it. Without moral consciousness, civic responsibility, and social concern among citizens, democracy risks degenerating into the dictatorship of the majority. As often observed, “Democracy is where public opinion is respected, the people’s voice is heard, and governance is conducted for public welfare.” Another vital aspect of democracy is decentralization of power. If decision-making is concentrated at the top while villages, towns, and local bodies remain inactive, democracy remains incomplete. True democracy flows from the grassroots upwards, shaping decisions according to real community needs. It is a path of dialogue and consensus, not of conflict and violence. Democracy must not be seen merely as a system—it is a cultural ethic that demands constant self-examination, self-improvement, and inclusiveness.
On this International Day of Democracy, the essence is clear: to preserve and strengthen democracy, constitutions and elections alone are not enough; its spirit must be kept alive through public awakening, ethical values, and a sense of responsibility. This year, the global observance particularly emphasizes “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Democracy,” highlighting how the responsible use of AI can reinforce democratic values. It is also a reminder of the collective responsibility to build a safe, inclusive, and vibrant digital future rooted in democratic principles, participation, and human rights.
In today’s age of artificial intelligence and advanced technology, it is vital that technology be seen not merely as a convenience but as a tool to enhance transparency, dialogue, and human values. AI has the potential to make democracy more participatory and accountable—by enriching decision-making with data-driven precision, ensuring transparency, and amplifying the voices of citizens to governance in real time. But if technology becomes only a plaything in the hands of governments or corporations, it can suffocate the very soul of democracy. Thus, innovation must always be tempered with human wisdom and compassion. In times marked by rising violence, wars, and terrorism, the solution lies in prioritizing dialogue, coexistence, and cooperation. Democracy must be nurtured not only as a political system but as a culture of peace and human dignity—where technology serves humanity rather than becoming an instrument of division and destruction.
The writer is a Journalist, Columnist
