Voluntary national reviews are the main global mechanism through which United Nations Member States report on progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. At a time of democratic backsliding worldwide, this report examines how democracy and related keywords are reflected across 402 reviews submitted by 191 Member States and Observers between 2016 and 2025.

It finds that democracy-related keywords are widely referenced, but unevenly. While civil society, human rights and anti-corruption feature strongly, issues such as political participation, representation and press freedom receive far less attention. The report highlights key gaps in current reporting and underscores the importance of stronger democratic content in advancing peaceful, just and inclusive societies.