United Nations: International Day of Democracy, September 15, 2026
On November 8, 2007, the United Nations, by adopting Resolution 62/7, established a democratic world order within international initiatives. Since then, September 15 has been observed as the International Day of Democracy, providing an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world.
During the celebration of the International Day of Democracy in 2025, it was reaffirmed that democracy draws its strength from people: from their voices, their choices, and their participation in shaping the societies in which they live. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the courage of those who, every day, shape their communities through dialogue, participation, and mutual trust, deeming these efforts more necessary than ever in an era marked by disinformation, division, and increasingly shrinking civic space.
In this context, for the 2026 International Day of Democracy, the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) will host an event on September 15 at UN Headquarters titled "Raising Hands and Voices," inspired by the importance of cooperation between people from different backgrounds to enrich decision-making processes with new perspective and foster trust for more peaceful and inclusive societies.
The indissoluble link between democracy and freedom of expression finds its legal basis in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees everyone the right to freedom of opinion and expression, including the right to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any medium and regardless of frontiers. Ultimately, democracy remains as much a process as a goal: only through the full participation of the international community, governments, civil society, and individuals can the democratic ideal be transformed into a concrete reality, experienced and enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.
This year also marks a significant milestone: UNDEF's 20th anniversary. Since 2005, the Fund has supported civil society, inclusive participation, and the strengthening of institutions that uphold human rights and the rule of law. Through the funding of more than one thousand projects worldwide, UNDEF has given voice to marginalized communities, promoted gender equality, and fostered transparent governance, especially in contexts where democracy is most fragile or under threat.