The Communication Secretary For.E. N.D. – Member of Heraklion mr Lefteris Αυγενάκη on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day for Democracy

“The 15th of September is celebrated as International Day for Democracy. Was established by the United Nations in 2007 and…
since then, more than 75 Parliaments around the world are organizing special events to commemorate the republic.
For Greece, the country that Democracy was born and the democratic ideals, the country that appeared on the direct democracy and the functioning of the “market” as a place of public debate and decision-making, this day has special importance.
The birth of Athenian Democracy is the cornerstone of the birth and evolution of the modern democratic polity. Is the source of inspiration of democratic institutions and the beacon for the respect of civil liberties and individual rights. The representative representation of citizens and the existence of an institutional framework of law engraved in the memory of mankind as the most brilliant form of organisation of society.
At a time when democratic institutions are under attack and criticism, in an era in which the crisis of institutions creates major problems not only nationally, but also internationally, it is more necessary than ever to develop a sincere and meaningful debate on the future of the republic.
The defence of democracy resulting from the consolidation of relevant principles and values of the citizens. The republic offers to the man the supreme good of liberty. It requires, however, the observance, on the part of the citizens ‘ basic obligations towards the state.
Democracy and democratic ideals should be the lighthouse of the modern polity. Must be our compass to avoid reefs and reefs at the state of our trip. In particular, today, the rise of populism and extreme right-wing and far-left positions, has created underground and back-end risks in Greece, in Europe, in the world.
After the extremely difficult experience of the economic crisis and the failure of our political system to effectively manage, we need to rethink the institutional set-up of the Greek society. The public debate on the revision of the Constitution and the functioning of democratic institutions must be directly concerned by all citizens and it is a collaborative process that will give new meaning and value to the policy.
The New Democracy was the party under Konstantinos Karamanlis restored the democratic form of government in Greece and established the Third Hellenic Republic. The New Republic from its inception is a pillar of our parliamentary democracy, which it serves and defends”.