The Importance of The International Day of Democracy

A public event was organised, marking Democracy Day with Speaker of Parliament, United Nations Family, National Democratic Institute, including media presence, civil society, and persons with disabilities.

UN family, including UNDP and UNDCO, were honoured to support the public event marking Democracy Day with National Democratic Institute and Assembly of Kosovo. Representatives from civil society and the media present. This just goes to show that democracy is for everyone, and that it is an essential part of our society.

The Speaker of Parliament Mr. Glauk Konjufca gave a very inspiring speech about the importance of democracy and its role in promoting sustainable development. Mr. Konjufca mentioned that Kosovo Assembly is in the second place in the region regarding the level of transparency, fulfilling 78% of the indicators in the Transparency section, as measured by civil society. Mr Konjufca further spoke about the efforts and his commitment for transformation and modernization of Kosovo’s Assembly.  He also highlighted Kosovo’s commitment to Agenda 2030, and further engagement of Sustainable Development Council in leading and supporting institutions in the implementation of SDGs.

“Free, pluralistic and independent media is a key factor in promoting democracy and accountability and supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. said UN Development Coordinator, Ms Arnhild Spence emphasizing the importance of democracy, stressing the importance of free, independent, and pluralistic media- in achieving SDGs

Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, director of NDI Kosovo, said that democracy brings must be defended at all costs, pointing out that even though democracy is sometimes difficult to implement, it remains the best system of government we have.

The event included a CSO fair, where guests and visitors had the chance to talk to representatives and pick up latest publications of Kosovo CSO scene that monitors the legislative and other public institutions, in all areas of life. There was also an option of taking an on-site democracy quiz for the visitors and guests.

On the other side, under the shade of the giant SDG wheel, a tournament of special chess of of people with visual impairment was taking place. Mr. Rinor Ymeri, the President of Sports Federation for the Blind, says that these occasions are a good opportunity to remind the general population and decision makers of persons with disabilities and that we can be equal contributors.

UNDC Arnhild Spence and UNDP RR Maria Suokko, handed over 12 GPS button trackers for the participants and organisers of the chess tournament, which are invaluable tools that people with visual impairment use every day.

From inadequate health systems to social protection gaps, digital divides, and unequal access to education; from environmental degradation to racial discrimination and violence against women. Along with the profound human toll, these inequalities are themselves threats to democracy.

Now, it is clear that Institutions must do more to listen to people demanding change, while continuing to keep open all channels for dialogue and respect freedom of peaceful assembly.