Program Areas

Program Areas

Promoting democracy worldwide

For a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy

Democracy needs attention

There is a worrying global trend of democratic backsliding. According to research, the average level of democracy a global citizen enjoys has fallen back to that of 1986. There have been almost 20 consecutive years of a continous decline in global freedom other studies say.

People want democracy

Most people want democracy and many feel that there is a deficit: over 80% in countries across the world’s regions consistently say that they find it important to have democracy. But only half perceive their country to actually be democratic and some of them certainly are not. 

Democracy and the United Nations

The UN has always been vocal in its support for democracy. This includes the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and other resolutions adopted by the UN General Assembly or the Human Rights Council until very recently.

Time for a Special Rapporteur

Democratic rights are under threat in many countries. A UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy appointed by the Human Rights Council can help protect and strengthen democracy. The rapporteur should not only address deficiencies but also highlight good practices.

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10 December 2023, a joint call for the appointment of a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy was launched which is now endorsed by over 150 like-minded groups.

News and developments in this campaign

New UN democracy mandate debated at Oslo Freedom Forum side event
An expert round table held on the sidelines of the Oslo Freedom Forum discussed the United Nations’ engagement on democracy and explored the appointment of a UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy.
DWB | 05.06.2025
A new UN Rapporteur on Democracy: addressing common concerns
Civil society groups are calling for an independent UN expert to help strengthen and monitor democracy worldwide. This article addresses some of the common concerns raised thus far by some governments.
Rodrigo Lima and Andreas Bummel | 11.04.2025
The UN cannot continue to stand by as democracy retreats
Despite democracy being a core principle of the United Nations, there is no dedicated UN mechanism to monitor and protect it. This article makes the case for the appointment of a UN Special Rapporteur.
Yuyun Wahyuningrum | 03.04.2025
Proposed UN rapporteur to support democracy, fill gaps: event in Geneva
An event titled “Democracy and Human Rights” was held in the margins of the 58th session of the UN’s Human Rights Council to brief diplomats on the proposed new mandate of UN Special Rapporteur on Democracy.
DWB | 02.04.2025