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International Day of Democracy September 15

International Day of Democracy is observed annually on 15 September to review the state of democracy worldwide and promote the values of freedom, human rights, and accountable governance.
Theme for 2026 = Bring human rights into focus.

Key Facts on International Day of Democracy

Date = 15 September
Observed = Every year
Established by = United Nations General Assembly in 2007
First observed = 15 September 2008
Purpose = To promote and uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, equality, freedom, and the rule of law.
The day highlights the importance of people’s participation in decision-making and governance.
It encourages governments and citizens to strengthen democratic institutions and protect fundamental freedoms.

Preamble Integration: The Indian Constitution explicitly enshrines India as a “Democratic Republic”, securing political justice, liberty of thought and expression, and equality of status and opportunity.
Article 324: Independent superintendence, direction, and control of elections vested in the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Article 326: Universal Adult Suffrage without discrimination based on religion, race, caste, or sex.
73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992): Grassroots democratic decentralization through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).