Sunday, September 15, 2013

International Democracy Day- 15 September

Democracy is a universal value based on the freely expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their lives. 
While democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy.
The 2013 International Day of Democracy was graciously celebrated on 15th September in Paro College of Education organized by the Institute for GNH studies, and Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan in collaboration with UNDP Bhutan. The theme of the day was “Empowering Youth Voices and Participation”.  Dasho Kuenzang Wangdi, Chief Election Commissioner was the chief guest. The celebration was also attended by Dasho (Dr.) Pema Thinley, vice chancellor of Royal University of Bhutan, Christina Carlson, UN Resident Coordinator, Members of Parliament, team from GNH Studies, other distinguish guests from various sectors, teachers and students of Paro valley, and faculty members and  student-teachers from Paro College of Education.
The celebration began with marchang ceremony and opening remarks by Dasho (Dr.) Pema Thinley, vice chancellor of Royal University Bhutan.
We also witnessed skirts, tribute songs and dances performed by the students from Thimphu, team from Labsey-nenshey and teacher trainees of Paro College of Education to mark the day graciously. 
The subject of this year's theme -- Strengthening Voices for Democracy- is essential for the long-term success of democracy. All citizens in all nations need to fully understand their rights and responsibilities, especially like a country like Bhutan that have recently moved to democratic societies. Should understand questions such as, “Why should I vote?”, “How can I influence my leaders?” “What can I reasonably expect from my elected officials?” or “What are my constitutional rights?” need to be addressed through civic institutions, in the free press and in classrooms. It is only with educated citizens that a sustainable culture of democracy can appear.

 Refrence:
http://www.un.org/en/events/democracyday/

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