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15 September: what is celebrated today
On 15 September, the international calendar invites us to reflect on two fundamental aspects of life in society and personal wellbeing: democracy as the basis for coexistence among free peoples, and prostate health, an issue of vital importance for prevention and care in men. Two distinct celebrations that nevertheless share the same background: a reminder that both citizens' rights and health require attention, commitment and responsibility.
International Day of Democracy
International Day of Democracy is celebrated every 15 September thanks to a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, and was first commemorated in 2008.
Origin of the observance
The date recalls the Universal Declaration on Democracy, adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union in 1997 after a series of international conferences promoted from 1988 by Philippine President Corazón Aquino, elected after the People Power Revolution that ended the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos.
At the conclusion of the sixth conference in Qatar, the idea of an international day for democracy was formally proposed. The proposal was put to the UN, which set 15 September as its official date.
Democracy around the world
Although this is the most widely recognised international observance, other countries and movements have also designated their own dates:
In Cabo Verde, it is celebrated on 13 January.
In Nigeria, on 29 May, for the return to democracy in 1999.
In the United Kingdom, it was commemorated on 20 January 2015, marking 750 years since the first representative parliament.
In Canada, the Fair Vote movement proposed an entire week of celebration from 15 September.
Why was this day necessary?
Democracy is a universal value, but there is no single model. Therefore, this day seeks to promote citizen participation, strengthen democratic culture and recall both citizens' rights and responsibilities.
Ideas for celebrating it
Take part in open days at parliaments and town halls.
Read and reflect on the Universal Declaration on Democracy.
Talk to younger people about the right to vote.
Support those who face limitations in exercising their civic participation.
Prepare conscientiously for the next elections.
European Prostate Health Day
15 September also marks European Prostate Health Day, a date intended to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and early diagnosis of diseases related to this male organ.
Why a day for the prostate?
Statistics show a worrying reality: many men avoid going to the urologist even when they have symptoms. According to a survey by the Spanish Association Against Cancer, almost 70% of men said they had experienced prostate-related discomfort, but only one third consulted a specialist.
Given that prostate cancer represents 22% of cancer cases in men in Spain, prevention and medical follow-up are essential.
Function and most common problems
The prostate, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, produces the seminal fluid that protects and nourishes sperm. The most common problems include:
Prostatitis: inflammation or infection accompanied by pain and urgency when urinating.
Benign hyperplasia: enlargement of the prostate that usually affects men over 50.
Prostate cancer: the most common in European men, although it has high survival rates if detected in time.
Warning signs
Pain or difficulty when urinating.
Increased urinary frequency, especially at night.
Incontinence or leakage.
Blood in the urine.
Regular visits to the urologist are key to early diagnosis and to ensuring that problems can be treated effectively.
15 September thus becomes a date with a double meaning: strengthening the citizen voice in defence of democracy while at the same time recalling the importance of caring for men's health. Because only with active participation and physical wellbeing can a fairer and more sustainable future be built.