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International Day of Democracy 2023 | Empowering the next generation

  • The Youth Cafe Kitisuru Gardens Nairobi Kenya (map)

Theme: Empowering the next generation

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The Youth Cafe is a youth-led organization aimed at achieving sustainable development, social equity, innovative solutions, community resilience, and transformative change. TYC will be part of the International Day of Democracy event since it aims at developing accountability initiatives and increasing advocacy for political stability and good governance to ensure there is a transparent, democratic, and accountable environment while enhancing further collaboration among stakeholders. This is in line with the IDD objectives.

Background Information.

The International Day of Democracy is a global observance celebrated on September 15th each year. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this day serves as an opportunity to promote and uphold the principles of democracy worldwide. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of democratic governance, encourage citizen participation, and foster dialogue among stakeholders to strengthen democratic institutions. 

The International Day of Democracy seeks to achieve the following key objectives:

  1. Promote Democratic Values: The event will emphasize the core principles of democracy, including transparency, accountability, rule of law, and respect for human rights, while also highlighting the value of diversity, inclusion, and equality in democratic societies.

  2. Strengthen Democratic Institutions: By organizing discussions, workshops, and panel sessions, the day aims to identify challenges faced by democratic institutions and explore potential solutions to enhance their effectiveness and responsiveness.

  3. Enhance Citizen Participation: The International Day of Democracy will encourage citizens to actively engage in the democratic process, whether through voting, public debates, community engagement, or participation in civil society organizations.

The theme: Empowering the next generation.

This year’s theme for the International Day of Democracy, “Empowering the next generation,” focuses on young people’s essential role in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.

Democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights are bedrocks of resilient, inclusive and peaceful societies.  They underwrite freedom, advance sustainable development and protect the dignity and rights of every person.  On the International Day of Democracy, we celebrate its promise to societies — and recognize the many threats it faces at this time of tension and turmoil.

The walls are closing in on civic spaces.  Mis- and disinformation are poisoning public discourse, polarizing communities and eroding trust in institutions.  This year’s theme — “Empowering the Next Generation” — focuses on the essential role of children and young people in safeguarding democracy today and in the future.

It is not enough to listen to children and young people.  We must support them with massive investments in education, skills-building and lifelong learning.  We must protect human rights and advance gender equality.  And we must expand the meaningful participation of young people in decision-making processes at every level.

On this important Day, let us join hands across generations and work as one to build a more just world for all.

Structure of Activities

  1. Remarks: Word from the next generation; CSO working with democracy; agencies mandated with preserving democracy; funding agency supporting democracy.

  2. High-Level Panel Discussion: Invite CSOs, Communities, Duty Bearers, Academics, Media and experts in the field of democracy to discuss the significance of democratic principles in promoting peace, stability, and development globally.

  3. Democracy in Practice Exhibition: Showcase success stories, exhibitions, and best practices from different organizations that would bring in the discussion of good governance and democracy.

  4. Artistic performances: Allow artists with pieces on democracy to present their pieces that will inspire and draw the audience into the discussions as a way of artivism. 

  5. Online Campaigns: Utilize social media and digital platforms to run awareness campaigns, encourage public discussions, and engage citizens in a dialogue about democracy.

  6. Democracy quiz: A session curated to inspire all to learn more about democracy in a fun way.

  7. Remote audience: Interactive watch-parties in 3 locations across the country that follow along with the event and make their contributions to the discussions.

Target Audience

The International Day of Democracy celebration will target a diverse audience, including:

  • Government officials and policymakers

  • Civil society organizations

  • Academia and researchers

  • Youth and student communities

  • Media organizations

  • International and regional organizations

  • General public

  • Artivists

Expected Outcomes

The expected outcomes for this day are.

  • Increased awareness of the importance of democracy and its positive impact on society.

  • Enhanced collaboration between various stakeholders to address challenges to democratic governance.

  • Encouraged citizen participation in democratic processes and decision-making.

  • Strengthened commitment to upholding democratic values and principles globally.

    Conclusion

    The International Day of Democracy celebration provides a valuable opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to democratic values and principles. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and engaging citizens worldwide, we can collectively work towards building inclusive, transparent, and accountable democratic societies.