Independence Day
May 28, Wednesday
Historical Background
After the fall of the Russian Empire in 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was proclaimed — the first democratic republic in the Muslim world. However, in 1920, it was occupied by the Bolshevik Red Army, and Azerbaijan became part of the USSR.
After a long period of Soviet rule, on August 30, 1991, the Supreme Council of the Azerbaijan SSR adopted the Declaration on the Restoration of State Independence. On October 18, 1991, the Constitutional Act on the State Independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan was adopted.
Date of Celebration
Until 2021, Independence Day was celebrated annually on October 18 as "State Independence Day." However, in October 2021, the Azerbaijani Parliament approved changes, and now:
May 28 is celebrated as Independence Day — in honor of the proclamation of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918.
October 18 is celebrated as the Day of Restoration of Independence — in honor of the events of 1991.
Celebration Traditions
The Independence Day celebrations include various ceremonial events:
- Official ceremonies with the participation of state leadership
- Laying flowers at monuments to national heroes
- Military parades (in anniversary years)
- Concerts, festivals, cultural exhibitions
- Patriotic events in schools and universities
Significance of the Holiday
This holiday holds great importance for the Azerbaijani people, as it symbolizes the struggle for freedom, independence, and national identity. It commemorates the sacrifices made for sovereignty and emphasizes the importance of unity and statehood.
Interesting Facts
In 2021, Azerbaijan celebrated the 30th anniversary of the restoration of independence.
Independence Day is a public holiday in the country.
National flags are displayed in Baku and other cities, and festive illuminations are held.