Every year on 15 September, the world observes the International Day of Democracy. It is a moment to reflect on the state of democracy and renew our collective commitment to protect it. Democracy is not just a goal but an ongoing process, built through participation, accountability, and the defence of fundamental freedoms.
At the heart of democracy lies freedom of expression, enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It guarantees the right to seek, receive, and share information and ideas freely and across communities. Yet in many parts of the world, these rights are restricted, silencing voices and weakening civic space.
According to the CIVICUS Monitor People Power Under Attack 2024 report, over 70% of the global population lives in countries with restricted and closed civic space, indicating widespread and routine repression of fundamental freedoms.
As UN Secretary-General António Guterres reminds us: “The International Day of Democracy is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of upholding free speech, civil liberties, and the rule of law; ensuring accountable institutions; and protecting and promoting human rights.”
About the campaign: #ThisIsDemocracy
This year, our #ThisIsDemocracy campaign reminds us that democracy is alive in the small, everyday actions we take. The actions could be as simple as raising your hand in class, saying “I disagree” at the dinner table, listening to someone with opposing ideas, amplifying diverse voices online, joining a community action, or defending someone who is being silenced.
These acts may seem simple, but they are the seeds of change. They challenge injustice, create dialogue, and keep the spirit of democracy alive in our daily lives on the streets, on social media, and in our communities.
Get involved!
Join our global call for a more just democracy:
- Capture your moment – Show us your gesture for democracy and share it with the #ThisIsDemocracy hashtag.
- Amplify voices – Reshare messages that defend freedom of expression and civic space.
- Engage locally – Take part in discussions, forums, or actions in your community that protect civic space and strengthen democratic participation
- Join the challenge – Create your own protest sign using the editable graphic here and post it online, using the hashtag #ThisIsDemocracy. Tag us @CIVICUSalliance!
This effort was co-supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Affairs.
