Pakistan’s decision to not participate in the Democracy Summit has drawn attention to the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy, an initiative co-sponsored by the US Department of State and USAID.
What is the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy?
The Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy is an initiative launched in June 2021 by a coalition of mayors from major cities in different countries, including Paris, Barcelona, Sao Paulo, and New York City. The initiative aims to promote democratic values and principles in cities around the world in response to a growing trend of authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms in many parts of the world.
Objectives of the Declaration
The mayors involved in the declaration aim to work together to defend and strengthen democracy at the local level, where citizens are most directly impacted by government policies and decisions. The declaration sets out a series of commitments that participating cities agree to uphold, including defending the rule of law, human rights, and civil liberties, promoting transparent and accountable governance, strengthening local democracy by empowering citizens and promoting inclusivity, and building partnerships and networks with other cities to share best practices and coordinate action.
Impact of the Declaration
The initiative provides a platform for cities to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and advocate for democratic policies and practices at the national and international levels. In addition to the commitments outlined in the declaration, the initiative also includes a series of concrete actions that cities can take to advance democratic governance. These include implementing participatory budgeting programs, establishing local ombudspersons to address citizen complaints, and increasing transparency in government procurement processes.
Pakistan’s Decision Not to Participate
Pakistan’s decision not to participate in the Democracy Summit may be attributed to several factors, including its current political climate, strained relationship with the United States, and concerns about interference in its internal affairs. However, it is important to note that Pakistan has previously faced challenges in upholding democratic values and principles, with issues ranging from censorship to human rights violations.
Why In News
Pakistan has opted out of the Democracy Summit, a virtual event co-sponsored by the US Department of State and USAID with a theme of ‘Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy’. It’s crucial to understand the significance of the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy and its relevance in the contemporary world, particularly in light of Pakistan’s decision.
MCQs on Democratic Values and Principles in Pakistan
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What is the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy?
A. An initiative to promote democratic values and principles in cities around the world
B. A declaration by mayors to establish their authority over national governments
C. An international agreement to end all political conflicts among mayors
D. A coalition of authoritarian mayors who aim to weaken democracy globally
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What are the objectives of the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy?
A. To work together to defend and strengthen democracy at the local level
B. To promote authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms
C. To establish local ombudspersons to address citizen complaints
D. To increase transparency in government procurement processes
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What is the impact of the Global Declaration of Mayors for Democracy?
A. It provides a platform for cities to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and advocate for democratic policies and practices
B. It promotes censorship and human rights violations
C. It establishes authoritarian rule in participating cities
D. It hinders the growth and development of cities around the world
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