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From Idu Jude, Abuja
As the world commemorates World Democracy Day, the Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and the Electoral Hub called on the world to reflect on the value of democracy, which is more than choosing leaders. It stated that it is about ensuring every voice counts, every right is protected, and every citizen has a meaningful place in governance, adding that true democracy delivers when inclusion and human rights remain at its core.
In a statement on Tuesday, Director Princess Hamman-Obels observed that “annually, precisely on the 15th of September, the International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to reflect on the state of democracy and renew our collective commitment to deepening democratic governance. As we mark 18 years since the International Day of Democracy was first observed in 2008, this year’s commemoration offers an opportunity not only to celebrate democratic progress but also to confront the barriers that continue to prevent many people from participating fully and equally in public life and democracies.
According to the IRIAD Director, this year’s United Nations theme for 2026 focuses on “When Every Voice Counts, Democracy Delivers,” placing citizens at the heart of democracy. It reminds us that democracy must go beyond the right to vote by creating meaningful opportunities for people to be heard, access information, influence decisions, engage public institutions, hold those in power accountable, and enjoy welfare – ‘Dividends of Democracy.”
Further complementing this message, the group indicated that the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s 2026 theme, “Bring Human Rights into Focus,” highlights the central role of human rights in sustaining democratic societies and the responsibility of parliaments and other arms of government to protect rights, freedoms, civic participation, and those who speak up for others. “Together, these themes reinforce a fundamental truth: democracy cannot be meaningful without participation, and participation cannot be meaningful without rights.
Democracy extends beyond elections.
She said, Credible, inclusive, peaceful, and transparent elections are fundamental to democratic governance. Adding that democracy must also be sustained between election periods through effective lawmaking, transparent budgeting, public consultations, oversight, civic engagement, access to information, and public service delivery.
“We are saying that the citizens should have opportunities to engage their representatives, contribute to public decisions, influence policies and priorities, and hold institutions accountable. Democratic participation must therefore be continuous, meaningful, and capable of influencing outcomes.
“The strength of democracy is also reflected in how citizens experience governance. Public institutions must be responsive to people’s needs, transparent in their decisions, accessible without discrimination, accountable for their actions, and effective in delivering public services. When citizens can access information, raise concerns, engage decision-makers, and see their participation reflected in outcomes, trust in democratic institutions grows. Conversely, exclusion, poor service delivery, limited access to information, and weak accountability can deepen public distrust and weaken democratic institutions.
“Human rights provide the foundation for meaningful democratic participation. Freedom of expression, access to information, freedom of association and peaceful assembly, equity, non-discrimination, and the protection of civic space enable citizens to participate freely and safely in public affairs. Where people cannot speak freely, organise, access information, or challenge decisions, democracy is weakened. Protecting human rights must therefore remain central to strengthening democratic institutions”.
Meanwhile, the IRIAD and The Electoral Hub says it is putting every voice at the centre of democracy means recognising that citizens do not experience democracy equally. Women, girls, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups continue to face social, economic, political, and institutional barriers that limit their participation and influence. A truly representative democracy must address these inequalities and create equitable opportunities for all citizens to contribute to public decisions and life.
