Armenia’s Independence Day: Marking 33 Years of Freedom and the 1991 Fight for Sovereignty

Armenia’s Independence Day, celebrated on September 21, is one of the most significant national holidays in the country. It marks the day in 1991 when Armenia declared its independence from the Soviet Union, following a historic referendum. For Armenians, this day is not only a celebration of freedom but also a reminder of the long and difficult journey toward self-determination.

Armenia’s modern independence movement began with the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty on August 23, 1990. This declaration was a crucial step that signaled Armenia’s desire to break away from the Soviet Union and form a new, independent republic. It marked the official end of the Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR), and the establishment of the Republic of Armenia.

When the Soviet Union began to crumble, Armenia chose not to sign the New Union Treaty, which would have kept the country tied to the Soviet structure. The failed August coup in 1991 further weakened the Soviet grip, and Armenia held a national referendum on September 21, 1991. In a nearly unanimous vote, the people of Armenia chose independence. The first President of Armenia, Levon Ter-Petrosyan, was elected in November of the same year.

Formally, Armenia’s independence was acknowledged with the dissolution of the Soviet Union on December 26, 1991. Armenia then became a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), alongside other former Soviet republics. 

This marked the second time Armenia declared its independence in modern history. The first instance was in 1918, when the First Republic of Armenia was formed. However, this republic was short-lived, lasting only two years due to invasions by Russian and Turkish forces.

Each year, Armenia celebrates its Independence Day with various events that honor the country’s past, present, and future. In 2019, a new tradition began, with national celebrations held in different parts of Armenia each year. This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, started in the city of Gyumri. In 2020, the celebrations included a spectacular display of Armenian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets flying in formation over Yerevan’s Victory Park.

Military parades have been an essential part of Independence Day celebrations in Armenia. These parades have taken place in Yerevan’s Republic Square in 1992, 1996, 1999, 2006, 2011, and 2016. They are grand events, showcasing the discipline, strength, and pride of Armenia’s armed forces.

The parade typically starts with the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces receiving a report on the readiness of the troops. The Defense Minister then inspects the soldiers, congratulating them on the holiday before reporting to the President. The President delivers a holiday address, followed by the national anthem, "Mer Hayrenik," played by the military band.

The troops, led by the Corps of Drums from the Monte Melkonian Military College, then march past the President’s reviewing stand, with various military units, veterans, and even students from military schools taking part. These parades are a public display of Armenia’s ability to defend its sovereignty.

One notable military parade occurred in 2016, marking the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s independence. It was the largest celebration in the country’s history, with more than 350,000 spectators and participants. The parade included a flyover of fighter jets, and several advanced Russian-made military weapons were displayed, such as the 9K720 Iskander missile systems.

Armenia’s 1991 referendum also included the participation of the Armenian population in the region of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). With nearly 99% of the population being Armenian, Artsakh voted overwhelmingly for independence from the Soviet Union. Since then, the region played a crucial role in Armenian national identity.

For Armenians, Independence Day is more than just a holiday. It is a reflection of their enduring spirit and determination to maintain their sovereignty despite numerous challenges throughout history. From the brief existence of the First Republic in 1918 to the struggles of the 1990s and the present-day complexities surrounding the region of Artsakh, Armenia’s people have continuously shown resilience.

Today, as Armenians gather across the country to celebrate their freedom, they are also honoring those who fought for their nation’s independence, remembering the sacrifices made, and looking forward to a future built on the foundations of sovereignty and self-determination.