Source: United Nations (video statements)
Video message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the International Day of Democracy 2025.
"Democracy is powered by the will of the people — by their voices, their choices, and their
participation.
It thrives when the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all are upheld — especially the
most vulnerable.
A democracy that excludes is no democracy at all.
To those who seek to discredit or undermine democracy, I say this:
I lived under a dictatorship.
And, along with many others, I helped rebuild democracy in Portugal.
I know the difference.
Today, as we mark 18 years of this International Day — and 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund
— we honour the courage of people everywhere who are shaping their societies through dialogue,
participation, and trust.
At a time when democracy and the rule of law are under assault from disinformation, division,
and shrinking civic space, these efforts are more vital than ever.
The United Nations itself is a forum for dialogue — rooted in the opening words of our Charter,
‘We the peoples.’
This is a powerful reminder that our legitimacy and purpose derive from those we serve.
Let us reaffirm democracy as a force for dignity, inclusion, and peace — and work together to
ensure it delivers for all."
More info: https://www.un.org/en/observances/democracy-day