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Statement delivered by Shoko Noda, UNDP Country Director on the occassion of the 4th International Day of Democracy at the Centre for Constitutional Dialogue

September 16, 2011

15 September, 2011

 

Mr. Chairman, Respected Youth Leaders of different Political Parties,

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Good morning/ Namaste, and a warm welcome to you all!

It is my privilege to attend this program facilitated by the Centre for Constitutional Dialogue with youth leaders, today, aswe commemorate the 4^th International Day of Democracy. The United Nations has declared the 15th of September as the International Day of Democracy and has invited all member states, non-governmental organizations and individuals to celebrate the International Day of Democracy in a manner that promotes public awareness and appreciation of the importance of democracy. I am indeed happy to be associated with this effort to set aside some time to discuss, analyse and explore the different facets of democracy with a particular focus on youth and inclusion. Many of us may take democracy for granted. But as we look around the world, we see that in many countries what we take for granted is often not in existence, or has to be fought for with great sacrifice, or can even be lost, unless there is eternal vigilance on the part of the citizenry. 

Nepal is progressing steadily to the consolidation of peace and democracy through participatory constitution making and conflict transformation. It is significant to note the impressive youth representation in the Constituent Assembly (CA) from different sectors of society. Many of these leaders are members of the panel for this morning’s discussion. I am aware that many of the youth leaders are not only playing a crucial role in constitution and peace building, but also in promoting and protecting a culture of democracy and democratic values in the country.  

Democracy as a concept has a core meaning- government of, by and for the People. But when one seeks to express this concept in practical or institutional terms there could be a variety of opinions and options.

For example, there are dangers in equating democracy with mere majoritarian decision making. We have to consider the rights and dignity of minorities, not just identity based minorities, but minority views and opinions as well. If we do not, we will have, to use John Stuart Mill’s famous phrase, “the tyranny of the majority”. The notion of human rights which includes rights that are attached to the individual and which are inalienable- cannot be taken away- implies limits on majoritarian decision making.

Secondly, we also have to discuss systems of representation for elections to democratic institutions- will it be a simple plurality/ first-past the post system or a system of proportional representation. Or will it be a hybrid or mixed system just as many parties here in Nepal have proposed for the new constitution? In a plural, multi-ethnic society, representation to promote inclusion and democracy may require additional considerations to be borne in mind as electoral systems are designed.

And thirdly, we perhaps should explore the linkages between democracy and equality. This too raises interesting issues and challenges that political and constitutional theory and political leaders and civil society groups have to grapple with. Social inequality, economic inequality, gender inequality and other inequalities abound especially in countries in Asia, Africa and South America. How do these issues fit with democracy where often there is acceptance of a more   formal kind of equality- one person, one vote; all persons are equal before the law, for example?

So while there seems to be a core meaning for the concept of democracy, there could be a diversity of opinions and views as one focuses upon more specific features of democracy and democratic institutions. Could democracy differ from country to country or across regions? Will Nepal have to develop its own conception or brand of democracy that is relevant to its particular history, cultures and identity? Are there dangers in this? How does one strike the correct balance between universal understandings of a concept like democracy and the particular application of the concept? Debating and discussing such issues breathes life into the concept and helps to ensure that democracy remains a vibrant and dynamic concept. I am confident that the panel discussion this morning will help to achieve this objective.

Finally, may I point out that UNDP has been working with the GON and other agencies to promote youth inclusion, leadership and enhance their capacities through its various programs. Among some of the initiatives supported by UNDP are strengthening governance institutions, building the capacities of the Government and other stakeholders, increasing income through skills development and generating employment and facilitating the design of inclusive development programs across the country.

UNDP, through the Support to Participatory Constitution Building (SPCBN) project and CCD, remains committed to assisting the Constituent Assembly and its membership in its important task of constitution making. Nepal has embarked on a unique and creative process for drafting its new constitution. The timely completion of the Constitution writing process with consensus among different political parties is a challenge and the next few months will be crucial. Youth leaders from across the party spectrum could be a bridge or a catalyst for reaching consensus and accommodation. This is necessary for consensus for progress with respect to the peace process and also constitution making. These, in turn, are vital for the consolidation of democracy.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the youth leaders who are present here for their important contributions to the constitution building process in the country.

May I end my remarks by reminding you of what the UN General Secretary, Mr, Ban Ki Moon has said in his message for the International Day of Democracy, 2011-

“On this International Day of Democracy, let us redouble our efforts to support all people, in particular the young – the drivers of this year’s momentous events – in making democracy a working reality. This Day belongs to them. Let us honor their commitment to a lifelong journey in democracy.”

Thank you. I wish your seminar every success.

 

Thank you