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Democracy
Global Issues:
The run-up to Senegal鈥檚 recent presidential election was marked by violence and political tensions. However, the March 24 vote passed smoothly, with millions of Senegalese showing up at the polls. No major incidents were reported, and a peaceful transition of power took place, highlighting Senegal鈥檚 stable democracy. Women's Watch Platform "脣tu Jamm" (探花精选 Space), supported by the During the election, 脣tu Jamm deployed women observers, who monitored the vote in real-time at polling stations in Dakar and in the regions.
This year's election is the biggest in human history, with 3.7 billion people across 72 countries having the opportunity to vote. However, many feel they lack control over their lives and their voices are unheard in the political system. Inequality, distrust in government, disinformation, and polarization are significant challenges. Countries need to invest in governance systems that ensure everyone has a voice and their needs and rights are protected. As the UN鈥檚 largest provider of electoral assistance, the United Nations Development Programme () assists between 40 and 50 countries annually, about a third of which are expected to hold elections in 2024.
The challenge of ending impunity for offenses to reporters is crucial to ensure freedom of expression. The 2023 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (2 November) aims to raise awareness of the hurdles faced by reporters such as violence and repression against them, attacks on the press during social protests, and the use of judicial mechanisms against journalists. The theme also highlights the role of a safe and free press in ensuring the integrity of elections and democracies. States must protect the independent press and promote independence, sustainability and diversity.
By the time many of the teenage climate activists of today are in their late 20s, climate change could force an additional 100 million people into extreme poverty []. By 2050, the risk of hunger and malnutrition could rise by 20 percent if the global community fails to act now []. This year鈥檚 theme for the International Day of Democracy, 鈥淓mpowering the next generation,鈥 focuses on young people鈥檚 essential role in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.