Updated on 14 September 2024 IST: The world community celebrates the International Day of Democracy around the globe on September 15 every year. In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution to observe the International Day of Democracy, encouraging governments to promote and uphold the principles of Democracy. The readers would know the details of spiritual Democracy.
International Day of Democracy 2024 Highlights
- Democracy is a universally established model and is one of the core morals and ideologies of the United Nations
- The vital aspects of Democracy are the principles of freedom, reverence for human rights, and the notion of carrying genuine and periodic elections by universal vote
- These ideals are exemplified in the Universal Pronouncement of Human Rights and further established in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
- Athens witnessed the formation of the first democratic government in 508 BC.
- Four countries such as Vatican City, Burma, Saudi Arabia, and Brunei declare not to function under a democratic government
- Spiritual Democracy gives freedom to choose the right Guru who can provide the way to salvation to attain God
When Is International Democracy Day Observed?
The United Nations General Assembly decided on November 8, 2007, to observe September 15 as the International Day of Democracy. The world community celebrated International Democracy Day for the first time in 2008. The U.N. general assembly accepted the year 2008 commemorating the 20th anniversary of the First International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, which offered people an opportunity to emphasize boosting Democracy all over the world.
What Is the Aim of the International Day of Democracy?
The main aim of the International Day of Democracy is to urge people all over the world to respect the rights of the citizens and provide substantial and meaningful participation in Democracy. Also, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is to address Democracy with 16 Sustainable Development Goals and ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, following national legislation and international agreements and to develop effective, accountable, inclusive institutions.
The Essence of Democracy
Democracy is not merely a system of governance but a framework that ensures the protection of human rights, the rule of law, and active citizen participation in decision-making. In 2024, over 50 countries, representing half of the global population, are holding elections. This highlights the critical role of democratic processes in shaping the future of societies worldwide.
How Can the Public Contribute on This Day?
- Various Govt and Non-Govt organizations hold events and activities like discussions, seminars, and conferences, including keynote speakers who are actively involved in supporting Democracy.
- The organizations, like the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), manage movements such as public opinion surveys concerning Democracy and political tolerance.
- Distribution of Leaflets, posters, and flyers in universities, public buildings to make people aware that Democracy and Civic rights are intricately linked.
Global Initiatives and Events
To mark this year’s International Day of Democracy, various initiatives and events are being organized worldwide:
- Human Chains in India: In India, a 237-km human chain will be formed from Shiroor in Udupi district to Sampaje in Dakshina Kannada. Additionally, Mangaluru will witness a 23-km human chain and the planting of 1,000 saplings in the Bengre area.
- UN Summit of the Future: This summit offers a crucial opportunity to strengthen international cooperation, build trust, and safeguard current and future generations.
What is the IDD 2024 Theme?
The International Day of Democracy, observed annually on September 15th, is a global recognition of democratic principles and a call to action to uphold these values in the face of contemporary challenges. This year, the theme is “Navigating AI for Governance and Citizen Engagement,” reflecting the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on democratic processes.
AI: A Double-Edged Sword
AI holds the potential to revolutionize governance by enhancing public participation, promoting equality, and improving security and human development. For instance, AI can facilitate better education on democratic processes and create more inclusive civic spaces where citizens can hold decision-makers accountable.
However, the unchecked proliferation of AI also poses significant risks. These include the spread of misinformation and disinformation, the use of deep fakes, and the potential for AI to exacerbate polarization and mistrust. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, emphasized the need for effective governance of AI to ensure it serves humanity equitably and safely.
The Path Forward
As we observe the International Day of Democracy, it is essential to recognize the dual nature of AI in democratic governance. By harnessing the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks, we can build a more inclusive, just, and equal world. The inclusive and geographically diverse High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence has released recommendations on how to achieve this balance.
In conclusion, the International Day of Democracy 2024 calls for a renewed commitment to democratic values and the responsible use of AI. By working together, we can ensure that democracy continues to thrive in the digital age.
What Is Spiritual Democracy?
We are living in a democratic country where we citizens enjoy the power to make decisions regarding all aspects of our lives. We also have the freedom to Spiritual Democracy to choose our God. Spiritual Leader Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj explains how one can make the right use of spiritual Democracy in achieving the correct path to attain spiritual peace and salvation.
Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj has given evidence from holy scriptures – Vedas, Bible, Quran Sharif, and Guru Granth Sahib, and has proved that Real God is Kabir Saheb.
- The holy Vedas illustrate that Kavir Dev (The Supreme Kabir) come in every age (Yuga), He doesn’t take birth from a mother’s womb, and maiden cow milk does His childhood upbringing. He attains the position of a poet for teaching Tatvagyan in the form of poems/Kabir Vani to His beloved souls.
- Even Quran Sharif, a religious book of Muslims, proves Allah Kabir as God.
- Holy Fazal-E-Amal, Fazal-E-Zikr, Aayat 1, mentioned Allah is Kabir. He is the Almighty Kabir. He is a complete God.
- In Guru Granth Sahib, there is proof that Kabir is the only God who nurtures the whole universe. He is in form and playing the role of a weaver in Kashi, Uttar Pradesh. Evidence in Guru Granth Sahib page 24, Raag Siri, Mehla 1, Shabad no. 29; Guru Granth Sahib, page 721, Mehla 1; and, in some portions of Guru Granth Sahib, Raag Asavari, Mehla 1.
- The Holy Bible also says that Kabir God is in form, and He is not formless
International Day of Democracy 2024 Quotes
I understand Democracy as something that gives the weak the same chance as the strong. –
Mahatma Gandhi
A great democracy must be progressive, or it will soon cease to be a great democracy.
Theodore Roosevelt
Democracy is “government of, by and for the people”
Abraham Lincoln
Our Race is a living being; Humanity is our religion
Saint Rampal Ji
Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, There is no separate religion
Spiritual Democracy provides us with the freedom to choose the Supreme God
Saint Rampal Ji
Come in the Refuge of Saint Rampal Ji to Get All Sins Destroyed
Spiritual Democracy provides us with the freedom to choose among the Supreme God Kabir Saheb, Kaal Brahm, Durga, Vishnu, or Shiva. Our decision to choose God has its consequences to decide our future. Only God Kabir Saheb has the power to destroy all our sins. All other deities can provide us according to our fate.
Kabir Saheb in His Bani says that
Kabir, Jab hee satyanaam hrday dharo, Bhayo paap ko naash|
Jaise chingaaree agni kee, Padai puraane ghaas||
Explanation: As soon as one takes the Naam initiation (Satnaam) from an enlightened Guru, it destroys all the deadly sins. It is just like a spark of fire that burns the heap of dry grass.
Listen to the Spiritual Discourses of Saint Rampal Ji
Make yourself aware of the Spiritual Democracy, and please listen to the spiritual Discourse of Saint Rampal Ji on the Sadhna channel at 7:30 – 8:30 pm. One can download the Book Gyan Ganga for more information.