International Day of Peace

Peace is a by-product of sustainable and healthy democracies, where people can freely participate in the political process without fear of discrimination. On the International Day of Peace, with the UN-designated theme of anti-racism, we reflect on how racism persists as an assault against democracy and human rights in countries around the world. The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) reaffirms its commitment to being an anti-racist organization and supporting work around the world to end discrimination. The only way to foster and strengthen democratic resilience is to advance the rights of women; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people; persons with disabilities; young people; Indigenous Peoples; racial, ethnic, and religious minorities; and other traditionally under-represented groups—so all can safely participate in civic and political life.