Democracy now facing more challenges than ever: UN

Democracy now is facing more challenges than at any time in decades and more inclusive democracies are extremely important, said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.  

"That is why this International Day should make us look for ways to invigorate democracy and seek answers for the systemic challenges it faces," he said in a message on Friday on the eve of International Day of Democracy.

The UN chief said this means tackling inequality, both economic and political. "It means making our democracies more inclusive, by bringing the young and marginalised into the political system. It means making democracies more innovative and responsive to emerging challenges."

He said working for a future that leaves no one behind requires all to consider essential pressing questions, as per UNB report.

For example, Guterres said, what impact will migration or climate change have on democracy in the next generation? "How do we best harness the potential of new technologies while avoiding the dangers? How do build better governance so that democracy delivers better lives and fully meets the public's aspirations?"

"On this International Day of Democracy, let us commit to joining forces for the future of democracy," he said.