18th International Day of Democracy

That this House marks International Day of Democracy; recognises that democracy, human rights and the rule of law are fundamental to peaceful, prosperous and free societies; celebrates the contribution of democratic institutions and the people who work to uphold them; further notes the importance of free and fair elections, a free press, an independent judiciary and strong civil society; expresses concern at the rise of authoritarianism, democratic backsliding and attacks on democratic institutions around the world; and calls on the Government to continue championing democracy, human rights and the rule of law internationally and to support those working peacefully to strengthen democratic governance in their countries.