International Democracy day

On November 8^th, 2007 the General Assembly of the United Nations in Resolution 62/7 decided to declare September 15^th as International Democracy Day. It encouraged the Governments to strengthen national programs devoted to promoting and consolidating democracy.

Democracy is an universal value based on the freely will expressed by people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of life.

While democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy. The activities of the United Nations in support of the action of Governments to promote and consolidate democracy are carried out in accordance with the Letter and only at the specific request of the Member States concerned.

The theme this year focuses on the challenges and opportunities associated with greater involvement of young people in democratic processes.

The Interparlamentary Union promotes the International Democracy Day through its parliament members in 162 countries around the world.