Values of Inclusion, Equality Cannot Be Seen as ‘Lip Service’, Secretary-General Says on International Day, Calling Democracy Building Block for Peace

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day of Democracy, observed on 15 September:

At heart, democracy is about people.  It is built on inclusion, equal treatment and participation — and it is a fundamental building block for peace, sustainable development and human rights.

These values and aspirations cannot be seen as tokens or lip service.  They must be real in people’s lives.

Yet, the International Day of Democracy takes place at a time when trust is low and anxiety is high.  People are frustrated by growing inequalities and unsettled by sweeping changes from globalization and technology.  They see conflicts going unresolved, a climate emergency going unanswered, injustice going unaddressed and civic space shrinking.

As we mark Democracy Day, I urge all Governments to respect the right to active, substantive and meaningful participation; and I salute all of you who strive tirelessly to make this happen.