At a time when democracy is under threat in many parts of the world, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has launched a global campaign to mobilize governments, parliaments, civil society, academics and citizens at large in support of stronger democracy.
Two historic moments are being celebrated this year: the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Democracy (September 15) and the 20th anniversary of the IPU's Universal Declaration on Democracy. On this occasion, the IPU's Commit Now! campaign invites everyone to take action to strengthen democracy, including exercising their right to vote in elections, denouncing human rights violations, rejecting laws restricting freedom of expression and joining civil society organizations.
The adoption of the Universal Declaration on Democracy marked a decisive milestone. For the first time in history, public institutions from a very large number of countries agreed together on the essential components of democracy, including its fundamental principles, such as free and fair elections, human rights, the rule of law, gender equality, freedom of expression and the need for strong parliaments.
As part of its campaign, the IPU has launched a year-long online petition to encourage parliamentary and government leaders to uphold the standards and principles of democracy proclaimed in the Declaration.
The electronic signatures will be presented to parliaments and the UN in 2018.
"The people who no longer believe in democracy are those who don't take part in it", says IPU President Saber Chowdhury. "The basic principles enshrined in the Declaration are as relevant today as they were 20 years ago. The challenge is to mobilize and ensure that fundamental freedoms and the well-being of peoples remain at the heart of democracy."
In light of the IPU's statistics on the political participation of women and young people, greater efforts will need to be made to encourage these sections of the population to take part in political life. Less than two percent of the world's parliamentarians have not yet celebrated their 30th birthday, and the global average of women in national parliaments has increased by less than two percent since 2014.
However, a number of advances have been made. The introduction of quotas for women in parliaments has borne fruit: there are now more women parliamentarians. In addition, social media facilitate contact and communication with young people. Voters are also better prepared, with easier access to information.
IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong added: "We cannot remain passive. Democracy is the only form of government capable of self-correction, and this adaptability makes it the best bulwark against extremism. Our duty is to strengthen democratic institutions. Strong democracies are the best way to cope with turbulent times, so get involved now!"