António Guterres (UN Secretary-General) on the…

"Democracy is powered by the will of the people -- by their voices, their choices, and theirparticipation.It thrives when the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all are upheld -- especially themost 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 toensure it delivers for all."