Independence Day in Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan, the 27th of October is celebrated as Turkmen Independence Day. This holiday is celebrated with a variety of events, including one of the largest military parades in Central Asia, held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The purpose of this holiday is to celebrate the country’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Turkmenistan (Public holiday)It should not be confused with the Independence Day of Turkmenistan that is held on the 27th of September and celebrates the declaration of independence that was adopted by the Turkmen SSR Supreme Soviet that same year.
The History of Turkmen Independence Day
A referendum in which Turkmenistan participated in March 1991 was an attempt to preserve the Soviet Union as a renewed federation called the Union of Sovereign States. Approximately 98% of voters in Turkmenistan approved the referendum. In August of that year, there was a failed Soviet coup by communist hardliners attempting to take power away from Mikhail Gorbachev. The Supreme Soviet of Turkmenistan then decided to adopt Turkmenistan Independence on October 27th, 1991.
Observing Turkmen Independence Day
On this holiday, Turkmenistan’s President appears at Independence Square in Ashgabat at 10 am. He then witnesses the event from the balcony of the Ceremony Field and Protocol Building. Also present at the event are other government officials and diplomats. Once everyone has gathered for the event, there are speeches, dancers, and a military parade featuring members of all the country’s armed forces.
After the military parade, there is a procession consisting of representatives from Turkmenistan’s five regions. These representatives are from Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap, and Mary. There are also representatives from Ashgabat, as well as workers from various industries in the country. To spread the word about this holiday online, the hashtag #TurkmenIndependenceDay can be used.
Turkmenistan (Public holiday)
