Context:
Karnataka on Sunday marked the ‘International Day of Democracy’ by forming a ‘historic’ 2,500-km-long human chain as a symbol of equality, Democracy, fraternity, and participative governance.
Background: –
The state government has taken the lead in organising the large-scale event to mark the day in association with civil society.
About International Day of Democracy
- The International Day of Democracy is celebrated annually on September 15th.
- It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to promote and uphold the principles of democracy worldwide.
- The idea for this observance originated from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which adopted a Universal Declaration on Democracy in 1997. This declaration outlines the principles of democracy and the elements of democratic governance. The first International Day of Democracy was celebrated in 2008.
- The day aims to:
- Raise public awareness about the importance of democracy.
- Encourage governments to strengthen and consolidate democratic institutions.
- Promote the values of freedom, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.
- This year’s theme for the International Day of Democracy is ‘Artificial Intelligence as a tool for good governance’, with a focus on ensuring effective governance of AI at all levels, including internationally, to harness its benefits while mitigating its risks.
- The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, underlines the potential of AI to enhance public participation, equality, security and human development but warns of its dangers if left unchecked.
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