- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- CivicHistorical
- Where:
- Ukraine
- Date change rule:
- Every June 28
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇺🇦
Constitution Day (Ukraine) is observed every June 28, commemorating the adoption of Ukraine’s modern constitution in 1996. This pivotal day marks a cornerstone of the nation’s sovereignty and democratic development. Join Ukrainians worldwide in reflecting on the principles of freedom and justice, supporting civic education, and celebrating national unity.
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History of Constitution Day (Ukraine)
Ukraine was a member of the Soviet Union until 1991, and during that time it enacted four different constitutions — one of which being the Constitution of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, which was passed in 1978. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Ukraine waited another three years to hold a presidential election, which Leonid Kuchma won in 1994.
In 1995, Kuchma signed a Constitutional Agreement and then established the Constitutional Commission, which would finally lead the Ukrainian parliament — the ‘Verkhovna Rada’ — to meet and approve the new constitution, in 1996. In a session without breaks that lasted for a whole day and a whole night, 315 deputies voted in favor of the renewed document, which would give Ukrainians more freedom of speech and human rights. Not only that but also progressively expanded the rights of private properties and defined Ukrainian as the only official language of the country. Ukraine Constitution Day became a work-free holiday right then and is even mentioned in the constitution itself — the only holiday to be mentioned in it.
Constitutions are documents that state the main principles or precedents that make up the legalities of a country or even a company. These papers determine how these entities are to be governed and limit the amount of power a government or leader has, so as to not overpower the predefined fundamental rights. In other words, a constitution is a document that contains the most important laws of a country or company and cannot ever be overlooked.
Constitution Day (Ukraine) timeline
The final constitution, under the gaze of the Soviet Union in the Ukraine, is signed.
Kuchma is elected and takes office.
President Kuchma signs an agreement that substitutes as the constitution until another is drafted.
The current Ukrainian constitution is signed and approved by parliament.
Constitution Day (Ukraine) FAQs
When is Constitution Day (Ukraine)?
Constitution Day (Ukraine) in 2026 falls on Sunday, June 28, marking the anniversary of the adoption of Ukraine’s post-Soviet constitution in 1996.
What is the significance of Ukraine's 1996 Constitution?
The 1996 Constitution of Ukraine established the legal framework for the newly independent state, defining its territorial integrity, democratic principles, and human rights. It was a crucial step in solidifying Ukraine’s sovereignty after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Is Constitution Day (Ukraine) a public holiday?
Yes, Constitution Day is a national public holiday in Ukraine, observed annually on June 28. It is a day for national pride, civic education, and official ceremonies across the country.
How many articles are in Ukraine's Constitution?
The Constitution of Ukraine consists of 161 articles, organized into 15 chapters, covering topics from general principles to human rights, territorial structure, and the powers of government branches.
Constitution Day (Ukraine) Activities
Go to a parade
Every year, the capital of the Ukraine— Kyiv — promotes parades, fireworks, and concerts to celebrate the holiday. Even some of the Ukraine’s main artists participate in live performances!
Wear blue and yellow
The official colors of the Ukraine are blue and yellow. You can show your support for the holiday by wearing these colors!
Set up the Ukrainian flag
You can always display a Ukrainian flag outside your home. It’s a great way to express your Ukrainian pride!
5 Interesting Facts About Ukraine
The largest country in Europe
With the exception of Russia, the Ukraine is the largest country in Europe!
It has the world’s deepest metro station
The Arsenalna station is 346 feet underground!
There are over 20 languages spoken
The official language — Ukrainian — is only one of the many languages spoken in Ukraine.
It is the home of easter eggs
The traditional easter eggs originated in Ukraine.
It has many ghost towns
Ukraine is home to the “Chernobyl Exclusion Zone”— where a few ghost towns are located.
Why We Love Constitution Day (Ukraine)
It celebrates freedom
The constitution of the Ukraine guarantees the freedom of every citizen. We love this holiday because it keeps that idea alive in the heart of every person in the Ukraine!
It celebrates human rights
The constitution of the Ukraine also guarantees that every citizen has access to basic human rights, such as health and education. Holidays like this remind us of how important these are!
Celebrates independence
This constitution marks an important step toward Ukrainian independence. It’s the document that officially disconnected the Ukraine from the U.S.S.R. and Russia.
