Secretary-General's message on International Day of Democracy

Democracy is powered by the will of the people -- by their voices, their choices, and their participation.

It thrives when the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all are upheld -- especially the most vulnerable. 

A democracy that excludes is no democracy at all.

To those who seek to discredit or undermine democracy, I say this: 

I lived under a dictatorship.

And, along with many others, I helped rebuild democracy in Portugal. 

I know the difference.

Today, as we mark 18 years of this International Day -- and 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund -- we honour the courage of people everywhere who are shaping their societies through dialogue, participation, and trust.

At a time when democracy and the rule of law are under assault from disinformation, division, and shrinking civic space, these efforts are more vital than ever.

The United Nations itself is a forum for dialogue — rooted in the opening words of our Charter, “We the peoples.” 

This is a powerful reminder that our legitimacy and purpose derive from those we serve.

Let us reaffirm democracy as a force for dignity, inclusion, and peace -- and work together to ensure it delivers for all.