Croatia marks Independence Day

Croatia is marking Independence Day today, commemorating 35 years since the Croatian Parliament adopted the Declaration on the Proclamation of the Sovereign and Independent Republic of Croatia and began the process of seceding from the former Yugoslavia.

The historic decision was made on June 25, 1991, following the first democratic multi-party elections, the adoption of Croatia's first Constitution and a referendum in which citizens overwhelmingly supported independence.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, Speaker Gordan Jandroković said the generation that created the Croatian state had fulfilled its historic mission and laid the foundations for a modern, internationally respected Croatia.

"A full 35 years ago, the Croatian Parliament adopted a constitutional decision on the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Croatia, and a declaration on the proclamation of a sovereign and independent Republic of Croatia. We recall that this was preceded by the first democratic multi-party elections, the adoption of our first constitution, and a referendum in which Croatian citizens voted in favor of an independent Croatia. Through these landmark historical decisions, the democratic will of the Croatian people to build their future in a free, independent, and sovereign state, was expressed firmly and irrevocably," Jandroković said.

He added that the anniversary should serve as a reminder of the importance of national unity and inspire future generations to continue building a safe, successful and prosperous Croatia.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković also marked the occasion, issuing a message on social media in which he paid tribute to those who contributed to Croatia's independence and statehood.

"In memory of that day, we celebrate Croatian Independence Day and remember the courage, determination and perseverance of Croatian defenders and all those who stood in defense of the Homeland, as well as the state-building policies and leadership of President Tuđman. Proud of all the achievements of the Croatian people over the past 35 years, we continue to work with devotion to improving citizens' quality of life, strengthening the economy and representing national interests on the European and global level," Plenković wrote.

The significance of June 25 has changed over time. Between 2001 and 2019, the date was observed as Statehood Day and was a national holiday. However, amendments to the Holidays Act that came into force in 2020 restored Statehood Day to May 30, while June 25 became Independence Day, commemorated as a memorial day and regular working day.