International Day of Democracy
Hand-in-hand with democracy is the observance of human rights and the global plight for these to be upheld across borders. The link between democracy and human rights is captured in article 21(3) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
“The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.”
Establishing International Day of Democracy
The United Nations established this day, held on September 15, in 2007 saying that, “the rights enshrined in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and subsequent human rights instruments covering group rights (e.g., indigenous peoples, minorities, people with disabilities) are equally essential for democracy as they ensure an equitable distribution of wealth, and equality and equity in respect of access to civil and political rights.”
Upholding democracy is an every-day opportunity, especially in these moments and through the post-pandemic recovery. It can become easy to take our freedoms for granted, due to living and being accustomed to a free society. When freedom is absent, life includes unimaginable challenges.
These are some of the challenges that immigrants and refugees escape for a chance at a better life in the United States. As it is well known, without these immigrants our country would not be as developed, as profitable, and as successful as it has been since it was founded by immigrants as well.
Everyone's Contributions Matter
In 2021 the President said, in reference to sustaining democracy around the world that, “we must start with diplomacy rooted in America’s most cherished values: defending freedom, championing opportunity, upholding universal rights, respecting the rule of law, and treating every person with dignity.”
There are many ways in which you can support democracy efforts in the U.S. and around the world. Some ideas include:
- Learning about your local democratic issues and candidates (Homepage - Wise Voter)
- Learning about democracy issues in other countries (Democracy | United Nations)
- Learning about the UN Democracy Fund’s latest projects (Democracy Fund)
- Supporting OPA’s mission by becoming a donor (Invest in America's future | One Percent for America)
