Democracy day: a timely reminder

The International Day of Democracy was observed in Pakistan last week. The day is celebrated around the world on September 15 each year to encourage people’s wider participation in running the affairs of the state. The day was designated as such through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy and its foundational institutions.
The International Day is an opportunity to review the state of democracy around the world. Each year highlights a specific theme. Past themes have included stronger democracies, the importance of democracy for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, strengthening the voices of citizens, dialogue and inclusiveness, accountability, and political tolerance.
The International Day of Democracy is marked by events and discussions aimed at promoting democratic values and raising awareness about the importance of strong democratic institutions. The day serves as a reminder of the universal aspiration for freedom and the rule of law, underlining the fundamental connection between democracy and human rights.
This year’s theme, “The Importance of Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Good Governance,” emphasizes the growing role that AI technologies can play in enhancing governance structures. Experts believe AI can improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability within democratic institutions by offering tools to fight corruption, strengthen policy-making, and ensure public services are delivered more effectively.
Global organizations, policymakers, and civic groups are coming together to explore the benefits and challenges of AI in governance, addressing concerns over potential misuse and the ethical implications of its integration.
In his message on the day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the need to ensure that the development and deployment of AI tools remain grounded in the core principles of democracy. “As we embrace technological advances, we must be vigilant in ensuring that AI is used to bolster democracy, not undermine it. Governments must ensure these tools serve the public interest and protect the freedoms that democracy guarantees.”
This special day allows countries to reflect on their own democratic journeys, the International Day of Democracy serves as a crucial platform for promoting democratic governance, encouraging civic engagement, and ensuring that governments remain accountable to their people. António Guterres notes that AI has the potential to enhance public participation, equality, security, and human development but warns that if “left unchecked” its dangers “could have serious implications for democracy, peace, and stability”.
The day has special importance for the people of Pakistan who have struggled long to establish democracy on strong footing. In his message on the occasion. President Zardari underlined the need to strengthen democratic institutions, undertake essential reforms, and work collectively to consolidate democracy in Pakistan. Highlighting the importance of democracy as the cornerstone of a just and inclusive society, the President emphasized that the resolution to the nation’s contemporary challenges was in a vibrant and resilient democratic process. In his message, PM Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his unwavering resolve to uphold democratic principles and values. He emphasized that democracy forms the cornerstone of a just and progressive society, calling for continued efforts to strengthen it and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding the constitution, rule of law, and human rights.
On this day we should reflect on the reasons why democracy could not take root in Pakistan. The failure can be attributed to several historical, political, and structural factors. Pakistan has experienced several military coups and prolonged periods of army rule. Pakistan’s military has directly ruled the country for almost half of its existence. This created a strong military-political establishment that has overshadowed democratic institutions.
On the other hand, Pakistan’s political institutions have historically been weak and underdeveloped. Political parties have often lacked internal democracy and are frequently dominated by powerful families or elites, leading to ineffective governance, clientelism, and lack of responsiveness to the public. The military’s institutional strength relative to civilian authorities created an imbalance in which democratic governments were often subordinated. Civilian governments have been dismissed under various pretexts, including charges of corruption or incompetence, with the military intervening to restore order. Unfortunately, the judiciary has not always been a staunch defender of democratic norms. Several judicial decisions have legitimized military takeovers, such as the Doctrine of Necessity, which gave legal cover to military coups. This weakened democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Widespread corruption and inefficiency within civilian governments have disillusioned the public and eroded trust in democratic institutions. Political parties are often seen as vehicles for personal or elite enrichment rather than genuine representatives of the people. Political instability has led to economic instability. Pakistan has faced recurring economic crises, often relying on foreign aid and loans. Economic instability has been used as a pretext by military regimes to justify their takeovers, claiming that civilian governments are unable to manage the economy effectively.
External factors have also played their role in creating hurdles in the way of democracy in Pakistan. Its strategic location, particularly its involvement in conflicts such as the Cold War, the Soviet-Afghan war, and the War on Terror, has made it a focal point of international politics. Foreign powers, especially the United States, have sometimes supported military regimes for strategic reasons, undermining democratic development.
Lack of political consensus is another inhibiting factor. Political parties and elites have often been unable to form a broad-based consensus on key national issues, including the Constitution and governance structure. This has led to frequent political deadlock and crises, making it easier for non-democratic forces to step in.These factors combined have hindered the development of a stable, democratic political system in Pakistan. While there have been periods of democratic rule, the dominance of non-democratic forces along with deep structural and socio-political challenges, has prevented democracy from taking deep root in the country. The Day of Democracy comes as a reminder that we as a nation should put our act together to give democracy a chance, a real chance.