Statehood Day

Statehood Day (HRV) History

Croatian Statehood Day celebrates the nation's historical decision to separate from the other Yugoslav republics. On 19 May 1991, 94% of Croatians voted for separation in a referendum. A month later, on 25 June 1991, the Croatian Parliament adopted the decision and began the process of separation from the other Yugoslav republics. Although the nation declared its independence on this day, it would take another 3 months for it to come into effect following unsuccessful negotiations with Yugoslavia.

Croatia's Statehood Day is celebrated annually on 25 June, a day that marks the official proclamation of independence. Originally, the day was celebrated on 30 May but since 2002, it has been celebrated on 25 June.

Top facts about Statehood Day

• The Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia came into existence during World War II. It comprised what are today Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia. It also included the autonomous provinces of Kosovo and Vojvodina.
• Slovenia, another former Yugoslav republic, also declared independence on 25 June and Croatian and Slovenian Statehood Days coincide.
• Prior to joining Yugoslavia, Croatia was part of the Austria-Hungarian Empire until it collapsed after the First World War.
• I declare to the whole world that on this day the Republic of Croatia is proclaimed sovereign and independent state Dr Franjo Tudjman, First president of Croatia (said on 25th June 1991)

In the News and Trending in the EU for Statehood Day

Statehood Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Spread awareness for the observance on social media using hashtags such as #StatehoodDayCroatia, #IndependentCroatia #GoodbyeYugoslavia.
• Place a garland, flowers or lit candles by the tombs of the soldiers who have fought for Croatia. This is a common tradition in order to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of Croatia.
• Attend the military parade in the nation's capital of Zagreb. This parade through Jelacic Square pays tribute to the thousands that lost their lives in the Homeland War that led to independence.
• Indulge in traditional Croatian dishes to celebrate the day. Some of our favourites are: Ajvar, Brodet, Burek, Buzara and Cevapcici.
• Read a book that details the creation and end of the former Yugoslavia. Some of our suggestions: Constructing Yugoslavia, Yugoslavia, The Fall of Yugoslavia and Tito and the Rise and Fall of Yugoslavia.