In a spirited commemoration of the International Day of Democracy, Naymote Partners for Democratic Development hosted a significant event at Dujar High School in the Grass Field Community, Gardnersville, Montserrado County.
The event, which was held over the weekend, brought together over 150 high school students, along with alumni from the Young Political Leadership School Africa and fellows of the Democracy Impact Fellowship Program.
The gathering emphasized the crucial role of youth in fostering and advancing democratic values in Liberia.
This year’s International Day of Democracy is celebrated under the theme: “Empowering the Next Generation – the Key to a Thriving Democracy.”
The International Day of Democracy is celebrated around the world on September 15 every year.
The IDD was established through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy.
The keynote address was delivered by Nikolina Stålhand, the Second Secretary of the Embassy of Sweden in Liberia, who praised Liberia’s recent peaceful elections and transition of power.
Madam Stålhand underscored the importance of youth not only as the future of democracy but as active participants in its present-day responsibilities.
“Democracy is not just about rights and freedoms,” the representative stated. “It’s about taking responsibility to uphold human rights, scrutinize power holders, and engage in democratic processes at all times, not just during election years.”
Naymote Executive Director Eddie Jarwolo facilitated a session on understanding the principles of democracy.
Mr. Jarwolo outlined key democratic principles, including: Citizen Participation, Equality, Political Tolerance, Accountability and Transparency, Regular Free and Fair Elections, Economic Freedom, and Control of Abuse of Power as key pillars of democracy.
He highlighted that accountability and transparency ensure that public officials are answerable to the people and that government actions are openly accessible.
Preventing corruption and misuse of authority through structured governance and active citizen participation was key during Jarwolo’s interaction with students.
Students shared their perspectives on democracy and the vital role of youth in democratic processes.
A panel discussion among alumni led to several key recommendations, including increased youth involvement in political leadership roles and becoming proactive change-makers in their communities.
The program concluded with the signing of a “Democracy Commitment Card,” symbolizing the attendees’ pledge to uphold democratic values and engage actively in their country’s democratic processes.
The event underscored the commitment of Liberia’s youth to strengthening democracy and highlighted their readiness to take on active roles in shaping the future of their nation.
