International Day of Democracy on September 15

• The United Nations observes the International Day of Democracy on September 15.

• It was established through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy.

• The Day is an opportunity to review the state of democracy around the world. 

To ensure that no one is left behind

• Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

• The values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are essential elements of democracy. 

• In turn, democracy provides the natural environment for the protection and effective realisation of human rights.

• Governance systems can create meaningful opportunities for people to influence the decisions that affect their lives. 

• Through dialogue, collaboration, and working to understand different points of view we ensure that no one is left behind.

What is the role of United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF)?

• For more than 20 years the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) has played a crucial role in advancing democratic values across the globe. 

• The UNDEF was established in 2005 as a United Nations General Trust Fund and UN Secretariat entity to support democratisation efforts around the world.

• UNDEF supports projects that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. 

• The large majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organisations — both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratisation. 

• In this way, UNDEF plays a novel and unique role in complementing the UN’s traditional work — the work with governments — to strengthen democratic governance around the world. 

• UNDEF subsists entirely on voluntary contributions from governments. 

• India is a founding partner of the UNDEF and one among its top donors.

• UNDEF funds, helps design, manages, and often generates projects in eight main areas that contribute to strengthening democracy.

They are:

i) Rule of law and human rights.

ii) Youth engagement.

iii) Tools for knowledge.

iv) Community activism.

v) Media and freedom of information.

vi) Electoral processes.

vii) Gender equality.

viii) Strengthening civil society interaction with the government.

Impact of UNDEF

• Since its founding, UNDEF has supported civil society, inclusive participation, and strengthened institutions that uphold human rights and the rule of law. 

• Its projects have reached grassroots communities, giving voice to the marginalised, promoting gender equality, and encouraging transparent governance. 

• Through funding more than one thousand initiatives, UNDEF has become a vital force in helping people shape their own futures through dialogue, civic engagement, and democratic innovation.

• Over two decades, UNDEF’s impact has been especially significant in places where democracy is fragile or under threat. 

• By investing in civil society organisations, independent media, and youth-led movements, the UNDEF has helped create resilient democratic cultures from the ground up. 

• In an era marked by disinformation, authoritarianism, and shrinking civic space, UNDEF’s work remains more relevant than ever.