Kazakhstan Independence Day

Independence Day is the main national holiday in the Republic of Kazakhstan, celebrated annually on December 16. This day commemorates Kazakhstan's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union. 

Kazakhstan held a referendum on March 16, 1991, with a majority vote of forming a new union of sovereign states, the Supreme Soviet of Kazakhstan passed the Constitutional Independence Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan on December 16, 1991. The beginning of a new era of the Republic of Kazakhstan under president Nursultan Nazarbayev, during which a new bicameral Parliament and a new capital were established. Notable events that followed as an indirect result of independence include Kazakhstan becoming a member of the United Nations in March 1992, the International Monetary Fund in July 1992, and the International Atomic Energy Agency in February 1994. 

The holiday is celebrated with fireworks, concerts, parades, and traditional music. Yurts (traditional tents) are set up in many villages where local delicacies are served. The Astana Opera organizes concerts involving national orchestras that perform traditional music. Corresponding to the celebration of independence day, it is also a part of remembrance of Jeltoqsan Protests of the 1986, which marked the starting point of discontent against Soviet rule. Additionally, it is a time for Aqorda Ceremony hosted by the President of Kazakhstan, in which the president present order, decorations, and medals of Kazakhstan to distinguish citizens. 

By Mr.Sarawut Thiramanit, Dr. Prachaya Suwanhirunkul

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