International Day of Democracy

International Day of Democracy History

International Day of Democracy is an annual observance held to promote and uphold the principles of democracy. Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Observance encourages governments and civil society organizations to strengthen democratic institutions and processes. It also aims to create awareness of the importance of democracy in our daily lives and emphasizes the need for every citizen's participation in a democratic system.

The UNGA established the International Day of Democracy in 2007, with the intent to encourage member nations to promote and consolidate democracy. Canada, as a recognized leader in global democracy, has been a driving force in advocating for the rights of citizens and strengthening democratic processes. The Canadian government's focus on values, such as human rights, inclusivity, transparency, and the rule of law, are key components of a strong democratic system. For Canadians, the International Day of Democracy serves as a reminder of the crucial role democracy plays in a peaceful and prosperous society.

In Canada, International Day of Democracy is observed through various activities, events, and discussions organized by governmental and non-governmental organizations. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of democracy and its relevance to Canadians' lives. The Canadian government often releases statements to mark the occasion, reiterating Canada's commitment to promoting democracy and human rights both domestically and internationally. The International Day of Democracy is observed annually on September 15th, serving as an important occasion for Canadians to reflect on the value and impact of democracy in their own country and around the world.

Facts about International Day of Democracy

• The United States is considered the oldest continuous democracy, with the Constitution adopted in 1787.
• The 4 countries in the world that do not claim to be democratic are: Saudi Arabia, Burma, Brunei and the Vatican City.
• New Zealand was the first country to grant women the right to vote in 1893.
• Each of the 10 provinces in Canada has its own democratically elected government with powers and responsibilities set out by the Canadian Constitution.
• The House of Commons is the primary legislative body, consisting of 338 Members of Parliament (MPs) elected by citizens through a first-past-the-post voting system. MPs represent various federal ridings (electoral districts) across the country.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Democracy

Top things to do in Canada for International Day of Democracy

• Attend the “Space for Civil Society” event that was held at the UN headquarters in New York. It is composed of a sub-group of the UN executive committee that is working in cooperation with the Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance. It promises to be a riveting discussion about democracy today and in the future.
• Spread awareness by using the hashtags #InternationalDayofDemocracy, #StrongAndFree and #DemocracyRules.
• Watch The Constitutional Express: Quest for Indigenous Rights in Canada (2020).
• Explore official websites of Canadian government institutions such as the Parliament of Canada, Elections Canada, and the Office of the Prime Minister. These sites contain a wealth of information about democracy, political parties, and the functioning of the government.