International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis

Categories:: Federal
Tags:: Civic Cultural
Where:: Azerbaijan
Date change rule:: Every December 31
Holiday emoji:: 🇦🇿

International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis unites communities globally every December 31. This public holiday commemorates the 1989 dismantling of border fences between Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran, symbolizing a powerful moment of unity. Join in celebrating the rich culture and shared heritage of Azerbaijanis worldwide.

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Expected International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis Deals

For International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis, the focus shifts from commercial deals to cultural exchange and community support. Azerbaijani cultural centers and diaspora organizations often host special events, concerts, and exhibitions that showcase traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Local Azerbaijani-owned businesses, such as restaurants and specialty food stores, may offer promotions on traditional dishes or products, encouraging community patronage. Fundraising drives for cultural preservation or humanitarian causes in Azerbaijan are also common. We will update this page with confirmed live events and community initiatives as December 31 approaches.

Platform Guide for International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #AzerbaijaniSolidarityDay. Share stories of unity and cultural pride.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #AzerbaijaniSolidarityDay. Share historical facts and messages of unity.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #AzerbaijaniSolidarityDay. Post photos of traditional attire, food, or community gatherings.

International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis Hero

Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh

Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh (1884–1955) was a prominent Azerbaijani statesman, scholar, and public figure, widely regarded as one of the founders of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918. As the first chairman of the National Council of Azerbaijan, he played a crucial role in declaring independence and establishing the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world. His legacy continues to inspire movements for national self-determination and solidarity among Azerbaijanis globally.

History of International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis

In 1989, the people of Azerbaijan pulled down the border in the former Nakhichevan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (A.S.S.R.) in order to reunite with the Azerbaijan people living in Iran. At the time, eight million Azerbaijan people lived in Iran, a staggering figure when compared to the 6.8 million people living in the motherland. The dismantling of the wall was not only a physical exercise but a symbolic demolition of the barriers between the people of Azerbaijan who longed to reunite with one another.

Another event that was thought to have inspired the dismantling of the wall was the historic collapse of the Berlin Wall in Germany. The passionate Azerbaijanis who tore down the Azerbaijan-Iran border might have drawn inspiration from that event.

In 1991, Heydar Aliyev — who later became President but was still the Chairman of the Nakhichevan A.S.S.R. at that time — promoted the idea of creating a holiday to celebrate the unity of Azerbaijanis. This initiative was presented before the Supreme Soviet of the Azerbaijan SSR. However, it wasn’t until 1992 that it was declared a public holiday by the decree of former President Abulfaz Elchibey, to be observed on December 31.

On Solidarity Day, public festivals and feasts are held by Azerbaijanis both home and abroad. Around 50 million people from Azerbaijan are spread across multiple countries on five continents while 10 million live within the country itself. This special holiday is a reminder that no matter where they are in the world, Azerbaijanis are united in spirit.

International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis timeline

1989

Broken Border

The border between Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran is dismantled.

1991

Independence Time

Azerbaijan gains independence from the Soviet Union.

1992

National Holiday

World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day in Azerbaijan becomes a national holiday.

1992

United Nations Recognition

Azerbaijan is admitted into the United Nations (U.N.).

International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis FAQs

When is International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis?

International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis 2026 falls on Thursday, December 31. This significant public holiday unites Azerbaijanis globally in celebration of their shared heritage and identity.

How many Azerbaijanis are there in the world?

While exact figures vary, it’s estimated that there are approximately 30 to 35 million Azerbaijanis worldwide. A significant portion resides in Azerbaijan and Iran, with large diaspora communities across Russia, Turkey, Europe, and North America.

What is the significance of December 31 for Azerbaijanis?

December 31 holds profound significance as it marks the International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis, commemorating the dismantling of border fences between Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran in 1989. This event symbolized the reunification and solidarity of the Azerbaijani people.

Is International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis a public holiday?

Yes, International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis is a public holiday in the Republic of Azerbaijan. It is widely observed with cultural events and celebrations both within the country and among diaspora communities around the world.

How To Observe International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis

Learn more
This important holiday is a great opportunity to learn more about Azerbaijan. Do a little research and you just might decide to schedule a visit.
Share a post
Share the information you learn with others. Post a short and sweet snippet about the lovely country and send it to your friends and family.
Use the hashtag
Feel free to use the hashtag #solidarityday on all your posts.

5 Facts About Azerbaijan You Might Find Surprising

Protector of fire
Azerbaijan means ‘protector of fire’ and is often referred to as ‘The Land of Fire’ because the country houses a large number of the world’s oldest fire hearths.
The largest concentration of mud volcanoes
Azerbaijan holds the largest concentration of mud volcanoes on earth, numbering up to 350. Compared to the country’s small size, this figure is considered large.
Miniature books
Out of all countries in the world, Azerbaijan is the one with the largest collection of miniature books — over 5,500 in number.
Prehistoric caves
Azokh Cave in Azerbaijan has chambers that might have existed two million years ago!
Euro banknotes
Azerbaijan’s currency, which is known as the manat, looks very similar to the euro banknote.

Why International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis is Important

It celebrates love
Solidarity Day is unique because it celebrates the unbreakable bond of love between Azerbaijanis, so much so that they tore down a border to be reunited with one another.
It promotes unity
Solidarity Day is also important because of the strong sense of community it inspires. Azerbaijanis all over the world gather to celebrate their unity and solidarity, no matter where they live.
It inspires national pride
This national holiday reminds Azerbaijanis of the values they hold dear and what makes their country special. It’s a time to count their blessings and appreciate their unique heritage.