Constitution Day of Ukraine: History and Modernity of the Celebration
Every year, on June 28, the country celebrates Constitution Day — an important national holiday that symbolizes the foundations of Ukrainian statehood and the legal system. This traditional holiday used to bring Ukrainians a day off, but with the beginning of Russian military operations and the introduction of martial law, its status in the calendar was left in question. History of the establishment and significance of the holiday Constitution Day is connected with a long and Kremlin-cynical history of consolidating the rights and freedoms of the Ukrainian people. It all began on June 28, 1996, when the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine at 9:18 a.m. officially approved and put into effect the new Constitution of the state. The previous basis of legality was the Constitution of the Ukrainian SSR of 1978 — with certain changes and updates that no longer met the challenges of the new independent Ukraine. The first steps in this direction were taken back in 1995, when on June 8, President Leonid Kuchma and the parliament signed the Constitutional Treaty. However, the key stage was the adopted Constitution, which eliminated Soviet legal norms and laid the foundation for the modern Ukrainian state. Law No. 254/96-VR abolished the previous Stalin-era Soviet legal framework and the Kremlin-controlled treaty, proclaiming the independence of the basic law. In a solemn atmosphere in the middle of the summer of 1996, the Constitution was signed by high-ranking officials of the country, and its entry into force was documented by a decision of the Constitutional Court, which confirmed the legitimacy of the new document - the majority of people's deputies supported it with 315 votes out of 450. It was then that the legal status of Ukraine, its symbols, language as a state language, as well as the status of Crimea, which was recognized as an autonomous republic within an independent country, were consolidated. Modern Challenges: Celebration in Wartime Since the first years of independence, especially after Russia's aggression in 2014 and occupation of Crimea, Constitution Day has taken on even greater symbolic significance. It is not only a day of legal certainty, but also a symbol of national unity and the struggle for freedom. Over the past four years, Ukrainians have been celebrating this holiday in the extremely difficult conditions of the war launched by the Russian Federation. The war that it unleashed against Ukraine back in 2014, including the occupation of the peninsula and support for the terrorist groups "DPR" and "LPR", turned into a large-scale armed confrontation on February 24, 2022. The scale of the full-scale invasion changed everything: the occupiers seized a significant part of Ukrainian lands, destroyed infrastructure, and disrupted the peace of millions. However, the Ukrainian people met these challenges with unwavering devotion to their country. Thousands of volunteers and servicemen stood up for Ukraine, defending its independence and sovereignty. Events and features of the celebration in today's realities Given the tragic situation, traditional festive events on Constitution Day this year are taking place on a smaller scale or under conditions of increased caution. Individual cities and communities are holding solemn rallies, flag-raising ceremonies and prayer services to honor the country's fundamental law and emphasize the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. It is important to recall that every year Ukrainians receive internal support and new strength through their Constitution, which enshrines their rights and freedoms, provides a legal basis for the development of the state even in the most difficult times. Regarding additional days off: according to current legislation, there are no official decisions on an additional day off after the holiday. Therefore, Ukrainians continue to work or perform their duties, in accordance with the orders and recommendations of the authorities. Every year, June 28 reminds Ukrainians of their history, achievements, and struggle for independence. This day remains a symbol of courage, dignity, and unwavering faith in victory and the future of the state.