Statehood Day

Statehood Day (SVN) History

Slovenia Statehood Day, also known as Dan državnosti, commemorates the formal proclamation of Slovenian independence from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1991. This observance highlights the democratic decision and the historical struggle of the Slovenian people that led to the establishment of a sovereign and independent nation. As a member state of the European Union since 2004, Slovenia's Statehood Day is an opportunity for the European community to celebrate the values of unity, freedom, and democracy, cornerstones of both Slovenia's independence and the European Union's mission.

The history of Slovenia Statehood Day can be traced back to the difficult times and aspirations of the Slovenian people for independence during the 20th century. The struggle culminated in the successful 1990 plebiscite in which 88.5% of the voters opted for the establishment of an independent and sovereign Slovenia. This event led to the declaration of the country's independence on June 25, 1991, sending a powerful message in favor of self-determination and people's right to decide their own destiny. For the European Union, Slovenia's Statehood Day and its subsequent accession to the EU symbolizes the reunification and integration of European states after the Cold War, a process that binds together countries and citizens in a community of shared values and principles.

The celebration of Slovenia Statehood Day within the European Union serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a common European family that cherishes diversity and honors the unique identities of each member state. In this context, embassies, cultural institutes, and Slovenian diaspora communities across the EU promote various activities and events that showcase the history, culture, and achievements of Slovenia. Through exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and more, European citizens are invited to learn about and share in Slovenia's unique and remarkable journey, with an emphasis on the importance of unity and cooperation throughout the European Union. Slovenia Statehood Day is celebrated each year on June 25th.

Top facts about Statehood Day

• Following the Ten-Day War, the Brioni Agreement was drawn up and required Yugoslavian troops to leave Slovenia soil by 31 October 1991.
• Croatia and Slovenia proclaimed their freedom from Yugoslavia at the same time. Croatia also observes Statehood Day on June 25 but has a different Independence Day celebration.
• Slovenia became a member of the European Union in 2004 and adopted the Euro as its currency in 2007.
• We gained independence for ourselves, not against others, which gave us a moral substratum. - Slovenian Prime Minister, Borut Pahor, at the opening of a photography exhibition on Slovenia’s 20th anniversary

In the News and Trending in the EU for Statehood Day

Statehood Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Enjoy the Jurjevanje Folklore Festival which runs through Statehood Day. The festival showcases traditional entertainment, music, songs, dance and foods. It is the oldest and one of the largest of its kind in Slovenia.
• Indulge in a traditional Slovenian feast with your friends and family. Include typical dishes such as potica, struklji, idrija zlikrofi, prekmurska gibanica and bosman.
• Spread awareness for the day on social media by posting pictures of you and your friends or family with the hashtags #Slovenian, #SlovenianStatehood and #Independence.
• Watch a documentary that explains and analyses the dissolution of Yugoslavia. Some of our favourites include: The Death of Yugoslavia, The Weight of Chains and Yugoslavia: The Avoidable War.
• Attend the official ceremony to mark the day. The ceremony is usually held in front of the parliament building and features political speeches and the raising of the flag ceremony.