International Day of Democracy 2025: Power of Equality

International Day of Democracy 2025: 

The International Day of Democracy 2025 is observed on 15 September to reinforce the importance of democratic values, human rights, and citizen participation in governance. 

Created by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this international day highlights the continuing importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and amplifying the voices of all people, with special focus on women, youth, and marginalized groups.

In 2025, the theme highlights a powerful call to action: “Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action”, focusing on equal representation, inclusive institutions, and the elimination of gender-based discrimination in political life.

International Day of Democracy 2025 Theme:

The theme for 2025 is: “Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action”

Set by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the theme encourages,

• Gender parity in parliaments and political systems
• Inclusive, gender-sensitive institutions
• Combating gender-based violence and discrimination in democratic spaces

This theme recognizes that true democracy cannot exist without gender equality, and calls for specific, measurable actions to bridge the gender gap in governance.

History and Origin of the Day:

The International Day of Democracy was established through a UNGA resolution in 2007, with the first celebration held on 15 September 2008. The date was chosen to align with the Universal Declaration on Democracy, adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1997.

This declaration outlines key principles of democracy,

• Right to participate in public life
• Respect for human rights
• Transparent governance
• Independent judiciary and press

About Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU):

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) serves as the worldwide body representing national parliaments.

• It works to promote democracy, peace, cooperation, and dialogue among parliamentarians worldwide.
• IPU provides a platform for international parliamentary diplomacy, helping lawmakers collaborate on global issues such as human rights, sustainable development, and conflict resolution.

Establishment:

• Founded on: 30 June 1889
• Founders:

• Frédéric Passy (France) – Nobel Peace Prize Laureate
• William Randal Cremer (United Kingdom) – Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

• Initial Name: Inter-Parliamentary Congress
• Renamed: Inter-Parliamentary Union in 1899
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland

• IPU is the oldest multilateral political organization in the world, predating even the United Nations.

Membership

• Total Members (2025): 180 national parliaments
• Associate Members: 14 regional parliamentary assemblies
• Represents over 46,000 parliamentarians worldwide.
• Membership is open to any sovereign state with a functioning national parliament.