Ukraine’s Constitution Day 2026: when is it celebrated and will there be an extra day off?
What is a constitution?
A constitution is the fundamental law of the state. It defines:
- the structure of the state,
- the procedures and principles governing the functioning of the representative, executive and judicial branches of government,
- the electoral system,
- the rights and duties of the state, society and citizens.
Other laws of the state are generally based on the Constitution. The Constitution has the highest authority and legal force.
When was the Constitution of Ukraine adopted?
Ukraine gained independence in 1991, but for almost five years the country operated under a constitution modelled on that of the Soviet Union.
Ukraine was the last of the former Soviet republics to adopt a new constitution. This took place on 28 June 1996 during the 5th session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of the second convocation.
The People’s Deputies worked almost continuously for 23 hours, including throughout the night of 27–28 June. Ultimately, the Constitution was adopted with 315 votes in favour (with a required minimum of 300).
The Constitution of Ukraine came into force on the day of its adoption.
When is Ukraine’s Constitution Day celebrated?
To commemorate the adoption of Ukraine’s fundamental law, a public holiday — Ukraine’s Constitution Day — is celebrated every year on 28 June.
Will 28 June be a public holiday in 2026?
Constitution Day is usually a public holiday in Ukraine.
However, following the start of full-scale Russian aggression, martial law was introduced in the country. Consequently, the provisions set out in Article 6 of the Law of Ukraine ‘On the Organisation of Labour Relations under Martial Law’ came into force.
Under these provisions, additional public holidays are cancelled for the duration of martial law.
In 2026, Constitution Day falls on a Sunday, meaning it is a public holiday in its own right. In peacetime, the Monday following such a public holiday would also be a day off. However, this rule does not apply during wartime. Consequently, Monday 30 June will be a working day across the country.
As a reminder, it was previously reported that the Constitution of Ukraine has been fully translated into sign language for the first time.
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