A Call for Education, Equality, and Participation
Every year on September 15, the International Day of Democracy provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the state of democracy worldwide. As the United Nations reminds us, “democracy is both a process and a goal,” and it can only become a universal reality with the active participation of the international community, governments, civil society, and each individual citizen. At its core, democracy is the natural foundation for the protection and fulfillment of human rights.
Achieving Gender Equality
In 2025, this day carries particular significance. The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is launching a global campaign on gender equality, entitled Achieving Gender Equality: Action by Action. Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, this initiative highlights the urgent need to defend women’s rights and accelerate progress toward balanced representation in political and social life. Ten concrete actions are proposed to parliamentarians around the world, ranging from the promotion of parity laws and the elimination of violence in politics to the revision of discriminatory legislation.
This campaign comes at a critical time. In many countries, women’s rights are facing troubling setbacks, while progress in parliamentary representation has stalled. At the same time, new threats to democracy are emerging: disinformation, attacks on press freedom, weakened institutions, and rising inequalities. These challenges underscore the importance of remaining vigilant and promoting effective, inclusive, and rights-based institutions, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Education Plays a Vital Role
Education emerges as a key lever. It enables individuals to develop critical thinking, identify reliable information, and better understand political and social issues. Through education, people can also achieve empowerment and become agents of change. The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), like other teaching congregations, played a crucial role in North America and beyond by opening access to education, promoting girls’ schooling, and guiding generations toward greater autonomy and engagement. Their legacy reminds us that democracy is built not only in institutions but also in classrooms, through the transmission of knowledge and the values of dignity and justice.
Today, everyone can contribute to raising awareness in their own way. Organizing a workshop on women’s right to vote, hosting a quiz, leading a discussion panel, or simply sharing question cards on democracy in public spaces are all ways to spark collective reflection.
The International Day of Democracy 2025 invites us to combine vigilance and engagement. Defending gender equality, promoting education, and strengthening citizen participation are keys to building more just, inclusive societies that remain true to the democratic ideal.
👉 Check out the IPU’s guide to the 10 proposed actions for advancing gender equality (available in several languages).