International Day of Democracy (15 September 2025) marks the 18th global observance of people-powered governance, emphasizing the importance of free expression, participation, and inclusion. UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised citizens worldwide for defending democracy amid challenges like disinformation and shrinking civic space.
A special UN event themed “From Voice to Action” celebrated 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which has supported over 1,000 initiatives to strengthen civil society, gender equality, transparency, and the rule of law. The day highlights democracy as a force for hope, dignity, cooperation, and peace.
