Statement by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on the International Day of Democracy

Fifteen years ago, nations from around the world came together to declare an International Day of Democracy—a day to reflect on our collective support for representative, transparent governance; equality; respect for human rights and dignity; and the rule of law. In the years since, democracy the world over has experienced significant challenges, with autocrats and illiberal forces increasing the pressure on those who fight for human rights and fundamental freedoms. We see it in Russia’s brutal and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. And here at home, we are called to renew our commitment to defend and protect the core tenets of American democracy.
 
Our founders established a government of, by, and for the people, built on the unique idea that all people are created equal. They recognized that the strength of a democracy rests in the ability of its people to make their voices heard. And today, I’m proud to be hosting at the White House the United We Stand Summit to counter hate-fueled violence, reaffirming that we all have a role to play in fostering a safe, inclusive, and democratic society.  In recent months, we’ve also demonstrated that our democracy can still deliver for the American people. Working together with Congress, I’ve been proud to sign into law transformative legislation that will grow the American economy and create more good-paying jobs for American workers, invest in infrastructure, reduce gun violence, improve access to health care, and protect our climate.
 
The United States is also working closely with fellow democracies around the world to tackle the greatest global challenges of our time, and I look forward to building on the progress next year at the second Summit for Democracy. This second gathering of world leaders from governments, civil society, labor, and the private sector will be an opportunity to demonstrate how democracies are working to make life better for people everywhere, and to redouble to our efforts to defend against authoritarianism, combat corruption, and advance human rights.

On this International Day of Democracy, we pause to reflect on the power that we hold in our in our hands and our sacred charge to preserve the soul of our Nation. To preserve that idea of America. To respect the rule of law, and defend free and fair elections. And we renew our dedication to uphold and strengthen our precious democracy and to keep faith with future generations.

###