Program Areas

Program Areas

Promoting democracy worldwide

For a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy

Democracy needs attention

There is a worrying global trend of democratic backsliding. According to research, the average level of democracy a global citizen enjoys has fallen back to that of 1986. There have been more than 15 consecutive years of a continous decline in global freedom other studies say.

People want democracy

Most people want democracy and many feel that there is a deficit: over 80% of people in countries across the world’s regions consistently say that they find it important to have democracy. But only half perceive their country to actually be democratic. 

Democracy and the United Nations

The UN has always been vocal in its support for democracy. This includes the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other resolutions adopted by the UN General Assembly or the Human Rights Council until very recently.

Time for a Special Rapporteur

Democratic rights are under threat in many countries. A UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy appointed by the Human Rights Council can help protect and strengthen democracy. The rapporteur should not only address deficiencies but also highlight good practices.

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10 December 2023, Democracy Without Borders together with like-minded groups calls for the appointment of a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy.

News and developments in this campaign

Community of Democracy debates new UN Special Rapporteur in Warsaw
On 11 June, representatives of the 30 member states of the Community of Democracies (CoD) convened for a meeting of their Governing Council in the Polish capital Warsaw, the location
DWB | 13.06.2024
Faith in democracy remains high at 85% in 53-country survey
According to the 2024 edition of the Democracy Perception Index, support of democracy has remained high across the world over the past six years. An average of 85% of survey
DWB | 04.06.2024
Appointment of UN Rapporteur discussed at Democracy Summit in Seoul
At the Third Summit for Democracy in Seoul, hosted by the South Korean government, an event was held during the civil society and youth segment on March 19th to discuss
DWB | 27.03.2024
International statement calls for a UN Rapporteur on Democracy
A statement calling on the UN to appoint a special rapporteur on democracy under the auspices of the Human Rights Council has been signed by over 80 civil society organizations and 180 individuals.
DWB | 20.11.2023