• International Days
• International Day of Democracy

International Democracy Day, also known as International Day of Democracy, is observed on September 15th each year. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to promote and uphold the principles of democracy worldwide. The day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of democracy as a fundamental value and a way to ensure respect for human rights, political freedoms, and the rule of law.

Democracy is a system of governance in which power is vested in the hands of the people, either directly or through elected representatives. It allows individuals to participate in decision-making processes, hold their leaders accountable, and protect their rights and liberties. International Democracy Day aims to highlight the significance of democracy in fostering inclusive societies, promoting economic and social development, and contributing to peace and stability.

Each year, on International Democracy Day, various events, seminars, conferences, and workshops are organized by governments, international organizations, and civil society groups to discuss and promote democratic principles, exchange best practices, and address challenges to democracy in different parts of the world.

The day also serves as a reminder that democracy is a constant work in progress and requires the engagement and vigilance of citizens and governments alike to safeguard and strengthen democratic institutions and values.

An insight

The Democracy Index is a measure of democracy created by the Economist Intelligence Unit. Similar to other democracy indices like V-Dem Democracy indices or Bertelsmann Transformation Index, its primary aim is to assess the state of democracy in different countries. The index focuses on political institutions, freedoms, pluralism, civil liberties, and political culture. It covers 167 countries and territories, out of which 166 are independent states, and 164 are United Nations member states. Using 60 indicators grouped into five categories, the index provides a numerical score and ranking for each country, while also classifying them into four regime types: full democracies, flawed democracies, hybrid regimes, and authoritarian regimes:

• Full democracies are countries where civil liberties and political freedoms are not only respected but also actively promoted by a political culture that values democratic principles. While they may encounter some minor issues in democratic functioning, they generally operate smoothly.
• Flawed democracies are countries where elections are generally fair and free, and basic civil liberties are upheld, but there may be certain problems, such as limited media freedom and minor suppression of political opposition and critics.
• Hybrid regimes are countries with regular occurrences of electoral fraud, which prevents them from being considered fair and free democracies.
• Authoritarian regimes are countries where political pluralism is either non-existent or severely limited. These nations are often governed by absolute monarchies or dictatorships and may have some democratic institutions, but their significance is minimal

The connection between democracy and good economic performance has been a subject of study and debate among scholars and policymakers. While the relationship is complex and multifaceted, there are several ways in which democracy can influence economic outcomes:

• Political Stability: Democracies tend to provide a more stable political environment compared to non-democratic regimes. Smooth transitions of power through free and fair elections can reduce political uncertainty, which is often conducive to economic growth. In contrast, non-democratic regimes with abrupt changes in leadership or frequent political instability may discourage investments and hinder economic development.
• Rule of Law and Property Rights: Democratic systems often emphasize the rule of law and protect property rights. This legal framework fosters an environment where individuals and businesses can operate with confidence, knowing that their assets and investments are protected.
• Accountability and Transparency: Democratic governments are more accountable to their citizens, as they must answer to the electorate through regular elections. This accountability can lead to more transparent governance, reduced corruption, and better management of public resources. When there is less corruption, resources are allocated more efficiently, promoting economic growth and development.
• Inclusivity and Social Cohesion: Democracies often strive for more inclusive policies that address the needs and aspirations of a broader section of the population. By reducing socio-economic disparities and promoting social cohesion, democratic societies are better equipped to harness the potential of their entire population, leading to increased productivity and economic well-being.
• Innovation and Human Capital: Democracies typically prioritize investments in education, research, and human capital development. These factors are critical for fostering innovation, productivity gains, and overall economic advancement. A well-educated and skilled workforce is more adaptable to technological advancements, making the economy more competitive on the global stage.