Since the beginning of this year, the world has watched citizens in Middle East and North Africa call for regime change and witnessed South Sudan became an independent nation by vote after years of violent strife. These events have thrust democracy to the forefront of conversation.

At IFES we see the positive ramifications of democracy through our work around the world. Sometimes democracy makes headlines as has been the case with the Arab Spring and South Sudan. In many other instances, the benefits of democracy are not as obvious, but they are always tangible. Among other things, by encouraging all citizens to have a say, democracy fosters the debate of diverse perspectives that can ultimately result in better ideas. By establishing that everyone has an equal voice, democracy promotes equality in all areas of society.

IFES is working with the authorities in Egypt and Tunisia to prepare for the crucial upcoming elections. In Sudan, IFES helped the election management bodies comply with their responsibilities under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement by delivering technically sound and credible elections.  In Southeast Asia, IFES is supporting local NGOs build a regional network of organizations to promote the rights of persons with disabilities. In the Middle East and North Africa, nonprofits concentrating on achieving gender equality are using IFES survey data on the political, economic and social standing of women to better advocate for the rights of women.

On September 15, the International Day of Democracy, IFES celebrates the power of the vote and the people around the world who are committed to building stronger democracies. 

Watch Stepping Stones for Democracy, a video on why democracy matters and how you can help champion it.

Read about the recipients of the 2011 Charles T. Manatt Democracy Award, which celebrates individuals who have greatly contributed towards advancing democracy.

Learn more about our project Status of Women in the Middle East and North Africa and our effort to create a regional Southeast Asian network for NGOs working on the rights of persons with disabilities.

Learn more about our work in Egypt and Tunisia.