International Day of Democracy

The International Day of Democracy has been observed around the world on this day since 2007 to promote and uphold democratic principles, including respect for human rights, inclusiveness, accountability, and transparency. This year we observe this day in the midst of a global pandemic, when it is more urgent than ever to remind ourselves and our governments of our commitments to safeguarding these values in our collective battle against Covid-19. 

Unfortunately, since the onset of the pandemic, we have witnessed democracy taking a backseat around the globe, as governments have restricted human rights and fundamental freedoms, clamped down on dissent, censored media, restricted access to public information, and increased digital surveillance of its populations under the guise of tackling the pandemic. In Bangladesh, too, there have been systematic attempts to curb the free flow of information, with successive directives of the government to medical professionals and government employees to not speak freely to the media. The latter have also been directed to not like, share or comment on social media posts that are critical of the Bangladeshi government. Meanwhile, the draconian Digital Security Act has been used indiscriminately during this period to target critics of the government's handling of the health crisis. The ministry of information has reportedly established a cell to monitor all media including social media platforms to check whether "rumours and misinformation" about Covid-19 are being circulated.

While we understand the need and importance to fight against misinformation related to Covid-19, we strongly believe that it is only possible through the functioning of a free, responsible and independent media. Citizens have the right to exert their demands from—and express their dissatisfaction of—public institutions and representatives. That is the very basis of a democratic polity. Curbing the free flow of information only creates panic, provides fodder for misinformation and erodes people's trust in already flailing institutions. The pandemic and its after-effects are far from over, and the government's insistence on downplaying the gravity of the situation can have disastrous impact on the citizenry. 

The theme for this year's observance is "Democracy under Strain: Solutions for a Changing World". Staying true to this year's theme, we urge the government to ensure inclusiveness and transparency in the policies and programmes that it undertakes to offset the negative effects of the pandemic and truly reach those in need. The voices of the affected populations must be taken into account at all stages—from design to implementation; after all, the true spirit of democracy requires that citizens, and not political elites, take the driver's seat in designing solutions for an egalitarian world.