Today marks the International Day of Democracy, established by the United Nations in 2007. This day is dedicated to reflecting on the state of democracy worldwide and the ongoing efforts needed to uphold it.
Democracy is not just an ultimate goal but a continuous process that requires active participation from the international community, national governments, civil society, and individuals. Only through this collective effort can the ideals of democracy be realized everywhere and for everyone.
A fundamental component of a healthy democracy is freedom of expression, enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This right ensures that everyone can hold opinions without interference and seek, receive, and share information and ideas through any media, across borders.
However, despite its importance, freedom of expression is often threatened by governments or individuals in power attempting to suppress dissenting voices.
The International Day of Democracy serves as a call to action for everyone to engage in discussions about democracy, support initiatives that uphold democratic values, and advocate for the protection of human rights, including freedom of expression and press freedom.
