Hawzah News Agency- In a message marking September 15, International Day of Democracy, Hojatoleslam Syed Sajid Ali Naqvi said the occasion was designated to support democracy internationally and strengthen democratic systems worldwide. However, he said, the international community's performance on human rights violations — particularly in West Asia — requires serious reassessment.
Gaza Under Fire as the World Watches
Naqvi noted that World Democracy Day is being observed this year while, before the eyes of the United Nations and the international community, the people of Gaza are subjected to the most intense attacks and pressure, violations and injustices against Palestinians in the West Bank continue, and numerous serious human rights violations in South Asia are being ignored.
He said the day has been observed since 2008 with the aim of supporting democratic principles internationally and taking necessary measures to strengthen democratic systems in various countries. But, he added, it is now necessary to examine how much of these goals has actually been realized and to what extent the international community has adhered to the true principles of democracy.
Global Powers Accused of Backing Tyranny
Criticizing the conduct of world powers, Naqvi said experience has shown that in many cases, authoritarian governments have been supported instead of democracy in order to secure political and economic interests.
In some countries, he said, principles such as the rule of law and the constitution, the priority and standing of parliament, and respect for the people's vote are not observed as they should be. While particular interests have been backed in the name of democracy, many fundamental issues — including basic human rights and freedom of expression — still face serious challenges.
Silence on Gaza Undermines Democracy Claims
The Shia Ulema Council chief said creating an atmosphere of fear and terror in various parts of the world, trampling on people's fundamental rights, and imposing restrictions on the media are incompatible with the principles and spirit of democracy.
He described Israel's criminal behavior in Gaza — met with silence by those who claim to champion democracy — as a clear blow to the credibility of democratic slogans, adding that the silence of world powers in the face of these crimes is deeply alarming.
'Government of the People, by the People, for the People'
In conclusion, Naqvi said democracy in its true sense means "government of the people, by the people, and for the people." If this principle is genuinely and practically implemented, he said, its fundamental purpose will be to serve the people and respect their vote and will.
In a democratic system, he added, the views and opinions of all segments of society must be taken into account. Islam, he noted, emphasizes consultation and the use of diverse viewpoints, underscoring the importance of public participation and opinion in the administration of society's affairs.
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