International Day of Democracy 2026: Why Children’s Voices Matter
The United Nations is emphasizing the need to involve people, including children and youth, in decisions that impact their lives as the world celebrates the International Day of Democracy on September 15.
The 2026 observance will highlight the role of dialogue, participation and inclusion in reinforcing democracy and creating more peaceful and accountable societies. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of engaging diverse groups of society in decision-making.
Children’s participation is closely connected to their rights. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child acknowledges that children have the right to express their views freely on matters that concern them, and that their views are listened to and taken into account, taking into account their age and maturity.
Democratic participation is not just about voting when adults. It can also include providing safe environments in which children can discuss issues that impact their education, safety, wellbeing and communities and adults listen to their perspectives.
The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which has been funding civil society and inclusive participation for over 20 years, is celebrating the day by showcasing citizens’ assemblies and other forms of deliberative democracy.
The 2026 observance is thus a time to reflect on how children and young people can be engaged in decisions that affect their current lives and future communities.
