Independence and Unity Day

Independence and Unity Day (SVN) History

Slovenian Independence and Unity Day is held to commemorate the official proclamation of the results from the 1990 Slovenian independence referendum. With an overwhelming majority of citizens voting in favor of independence from Yugoslavia, the day marks a pivotal moment in the nation's modern history. As a major milestone in the nation's democratic development, the event is an opportunity for reflection on Slovenia's progress and reaffirmation of its commitment to unity and national cohesion.

On December 23, 1990, a staggering 88.5% of Slovenians voted in favor of establishing their own sovereign state, which played an instrumental role in the disintegration of Yugoslavia. Subsequently, on June 25, 1991, Slovenia declared independence, leading to a ten-day war with Yugoslav forces. This series of events ultimately contributed to the breakdown of the Yugoslav Federation and paved the way for the establishment of various new democratic countries in Southeastern Europe.

Slovenian Independence Day is observed annually on December 26th.

Top facts about Independence and Unity Day

• The results of the referendum paved the way for Slovenia's government to adopt the Basic Constitutional Charter on the Sovereignty and Independence of the Republic of Slovenia on 25 June 1991.
• 93.2% of Slovenians voted in the referendum and a total of 95% of those who voted, voted in favour of independence.
• Slovenians gradually gained their independence, both politically and as a nation, over the past few centuries in highly complex and often turbulent, even military circumstances... It turned out that we could no longer play a subordinate role in the context of a broader state, particularly when that state’s government was authoritarian and as such alienated from the vital interests of the Slovenian nation.- Prime Minister Miro Cerar in 2015

In the News and Trending in the EU for Independence and Unity Day

Independence and Unity Day Top Things to Do

• Watch the live broadcast of the Central National Ceremony. There will be official speeches by the President, poetry readings and musical performances.
• Spread awareness for the day on social media by posting pictures of you and your friends or family with the hashtags #Slovenian, #SlovenianIndependence and #IndependenceandUnity.
• Celebrate Boxing Day and St Stephens Day with your family and friends. Wear your white, blue and red clothes to match the Slovenian flag.