Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The European Union remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting and defending democracy, both within and beyond our borders. 2024 is a pivotal election year. Nearly half of the world’s population in more than 70 countries will have the opportunity to elect their representatives. This year, millions of people around the world are reaffirming their commitment to democracy, whether as candidates or voters, often in difficult circumstances. According to a statement issued by the European Union institutions in Brussels today, Saturday, on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy, it also said: “The European Union pays tribute to those who defend democracy, often at great personal risk. Supporting democracy is key to preserving and enhancing the dignity of every citizen, as well as promoting social justice, inclusive development and peace. In different regions, citizens face threats and attempts to undermine the democratic process, such as political violence, electoral manipulation, fraud, misuse of state resources, disinformation or foreign interference. These actions undermine the integrity of elections and the foundation of democracy.
The European Union, through the deployment of election observation missions and other democracy support tools, works to identify, deter and issue recommendations on these issues to enable and encourage effective participation in elections.
This is not just a one-day mission: the EU’s commitment extends beyond elections. The EU supports the democratic principles of participation, equality, accountability and transparency, with a focus on the inclusion of women and children and youth in public life.

It supports civic space and human rights defenders, fights corruption and strives to strengthen the rule of law. The EU stands for independent media, the safety of journalists, the fight against disinformation online and offline, while promoting a fair digital transformation. These are part of the core values ​​that distinguish us.

The past decade has shown that democracy is fragile and requires constant vigilance. We must continue to work to strengthen the resilience of our democracies, and to repel any attempts to erode them, both inside and outside the EU.

On this International Day of Democracy, we reaffirm our support for all those who defend democratic values ​​and universal rights and underscore the collective responsibility to build resilient and inclusive societies for current and future generations.