09/15/2023
Today marks the when we reflect on the enduring significance of - the age-old principle of governance by the people, for the people, and of the people. Democracy is the culmination of centuries of relentless struggle to secure the separation of powers, equal rights, and the progressive expansion of public for every individual.
In our contemporary world, the essence of democracy remains central, even as its imperfections loom large in some regions more than others. The paradigms of Western democracies, once the models to aspire to, are losing their sheen. The 2022 Democracy Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit reveals that merely 8% of the global population resides in complete democracies, with 48 countries categorized as "flawed democracies."
Among the multifaceted facets that characterize democracy, one crucial aspect that warrants our attention is on a global scale. Modern democracy, conceived from the historic upheavals of the English, , and revolutions, is inherently rooted in the principle of representation. Even in the 21st century, this representation remains startlingly elusive regarding gender balance in participation. Alarming statistics from suggest that it could take at least another 130 years to achieve true gender parity in public life.
While a fortunate few countries have achieved gender balance in political representation, women in many nations are still relegated to portfolios like "Women & Gender ," "Family & Children," "Social Inclusion," and "Social Protection," reflecting persistent stereotypes regarding their societal roles. Regrettably, portfolios with economic, financial, and diplomatic influence remain the exception rather than the norm. Gender equality in society and the active participation of women in public affairs remain distant aspirations.
The onus falls on us to raise our voices and engage with public authorities to reshape societal perspectives and secure genuine, concrete, and legal gender equality. Let us collectively commit to ensuring that the promise of democracy extends to all, irrespective of gender, and that the vision of a genuinely inclusive society becomes a reality.
