The Day of Commemoration for the most important decision in Slovene history

Today’s date is very important for the independence of Slovenia.

Slovenia is celebrating a major national holiday, so today is also a public holiday – a day off!

It’s a day to remember how Slovenian politicians solemnly announced the results of the plebiscite; they held an electorate vote for a sovereign and independent Slovenia.

Voters decided on the question “Should the Republic of Slovenia become an independent country?”

On that day a very special and optimistic atmosphere prevailed. Many cities were decorated, and many celebrations took place.

Some polling stations closed already in the middle of the day because the turnout was 100 percent.

That’s huge!

Of all those who participated, as many as 95 percent answered yes.

With this act, the path to an independent Slovenia began.

After the announcement of the results, Slovenian politicians spent half a year preparing for the establishment of a new state.

They had to design new money, laws, and a flag as well as organize an army.

Slovenia was officially declared an independent country on June 25, 1991.

This day is also a national holiday called, Statehood Day.

At that time, Slovenia also got a new constitution.

Until 2005, December 26^th was celebrated only as Independence Day. It was later renamed Independence and Unity Day to emphasize the greatest unity of Slovenes in history.

Glossary

Plebiscite is a very special election, which is also called popular vote, when every single registered voter is invited to cast their vote.

Points to Consider

1. Do you understand the difference between Independence and Unity Day and Statehood Day?
2. Which country was Slovenia before independence?
3. Do you know what a constitution is?

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The original version of this article was published on 26^th December.