On this year’s International Day of Democracy, European Union leaders warned that democratic institutions across the globe are under siege, urging stronger international action to defend civic freedoms from rising authoritarian threats.

In a joint statement on Monday, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, and Commissioner McGrath declared that democracy remains the cornerstone of peace, freedom, and prosperity, yet faces “unprecedented challenges worldwide.”

They cited disinformation campaigns, political polarisation, shrinking civic space, and cuts to democracy support as creating vulnerabilities that authoritarian regimes are exploiting.

“Democracy is the foundation of peace, freedom and prosperity and is the bedrock of our European Union,” the leaders said. “Only democracy can guarantee that fundamental rights are preserved and respected.”

The statement pledged EU support for free media, fair elections, freedom of speech, and access to reliable information — stressing that defending democracy is not only about values but also about global security.

Last week, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres echoed similar concerns in a personal message marking both the 18th International Day of Democracy and the 20th anniversary of the UN Democracy Fund. Drawing from his childhood under dictatorship in Portugal, he underscored the stark difference between life under repression and freedom.

“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,” Guterres said.

He praised the courage of citizens worldwide who continue to engage in dialogue, participation, and trust-building despite growing attacks on democratic norms.

“Democracy is powered by the will of the people — by their voices, their choices, and their participation. A democracy that excludes is no democracy at all,” he added.

The International Day of Democracy, observed annually on September 15, was established by the UN to review the global state of democracy and highlight freedom of expression as a fundamental human right, enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

This year’s commemorations included a United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) event themed “We the peoples,” celebrating democracy as a living force of agency, hope, and cooperation across the globe.