The International Day of Democracy, which is celebrated yearly on the 15th of September, grants us a chance to re-assess the global condition of democracy. Democracy is a process as well as a goal, and it can only be realized with the full participation and support of the international community, national governing bodies, civil society, and people.
The principles of holding periodic and legitimate elections by universal suffrage, as well as the ideals of liberty and respect for human rights, are critical aspects of democracy. As a result, democracy creates an atmosphere conducive to the preservation and effective implementation of human rights.
Since 2017, The Innovation in Politics Awards have honoured 598 people who are at the forefront of political innovation and who pioneer democratic best practices. With this Award, The Innovation in Politics Institute gives visibility to the best political minds in Europe, provides them with a platform to present their innovative projects, and facilitates best practice exchange across borders.
Today, we celebrate a wealth of innovation-driven projects in the category Democracy, and embrace the power of political best practice to generate positive change in cross-border settings of citizen empowerment and engagement:
How to apply to become the European Capital of Democracy 2024/25
Becoming a European Capital of Democracy is a unique opportunity for cities within the Council of Europe member states and Kosovo.
Six projects that fight for gender equality
Gender inequality remains a persistent and pressing issue, despite the systematic efforts of the feminist movement over the past century.
Citizens’ Cabinet
A system in Brussels engages citizens, allowing residents from different language groups to discuss their ideas and perceptions of the city, and to bring them into the political decision-making process.
Citizen Empowerment: problem solving in the community
A platform allows citizens to engage in a constructive dialogue with Tundzha Municipality and find agreements about regional projects.
Youth Empowerment: the voice of young people represented and executed in local government
Weekly, organised meetings in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria, give young people a voice, and let them discuss and bring ideas to the local Municipality.
Frankfurt Democracy Convention 2019
Citizens are randomly selected to represent society and discuss relevant issues to reduce alienation from politics and increase active participation in local democracy.
Your Vote Your Voice
Monaghan County Council has developed an easy-to-read guide to the voting process, with a focus on the needs of disabled voters.
UrbanLab Gdynia
A cross-sectoral, interdisciplinary programme helps a city achieve sustainability goals, thanks to activities ranging from small community projects to large participation innovations.
The Citizens’ Constitution of Molières: Participative Democracy in Action!
The City of Molières manages its municipal activities in a participatory manner structurally involving all residents in local decision-making.
Helvetia Calls!
Helvetia, the female national personification of Switzerland, campaigns for women to enter politics, run for office, and improve democracy.
Corruption Prevention through Civic Engagement
A platform connects people to crowdsource actionable data on corruption, offers training and educational activities, and helps find solutions and close legislative gaps.
In our Showroom we present exemplary political projects which successfully address today’s challenges. Each month, we offer you a carefully curated selection of best practices which impact global settings through local change-making.
