In a terse joint statement marking International Day of Democracy recognized on September 15, 2022, Ambassador of the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Lynch, the British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, Canadian High Commissioner, Mark Berman, and Ambassador of the European Union, René van Nes reaffirmed “the cornerstones of democracy, including liberty, equality, inclusivity, freedom of religion and belief, speech and assembly, the rule of law, and the right to vote.”
The representatives of western powers stated that while “free, fair and inclusive elections are critical, democracies also help safeguard human rights and fundamental freedoms and work to strengthen political, economic, and social rights. And they do so openly, to the benefit of all. When these principles are placed at the center of foreign policy frameworks, they connect us as global citizens and help nations achieve and sustain peace and stability around the world.”
The Peoples’ Progressive Party (PPP) has come under intense scrutiny of the United States, in particular, in recent months. A recent visit to Washington was telling as Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned the regime of several issues operating locally. A number of other US officials have also raised concern about the PPP’s political and social posture, post-August 2, 2022.
In the ABCU’s joint statement they said, “We acknowledge that democracy as a form of government is not without its challenges and requires continuous reflection and improvement. To tackle the critical issues facing the world today, democracies need to be constantly vigilant in strengthening their institutions and processes, actively engaging civil society, supporting press freedom, ensuring equity and fairness, respect for diversity, and holding to account those who commit abuses and foster corrupt practices.”
More, In The Ring.
