Constitution Day in Kosovo

Constitution Day is a public holiday that’s observed in the Republic of Kosovo that’s observed annually on the 9th of April. As is the case with many holidays of this type, if the holiday falls on a weekend, then it’s observed on the following Monday so that everyone can have a weekday off.

This holiday commemorates the ratification of the country’s constitution on April 9th, 2008. The constitution wouldn’t take full effect in the country until June 15, 2008, however. This document guarantees all citizens of Kosovo basic freedoms and rights and is the most important legal document produced in the country over the last 50-years.

The History Of Constitution Day In Kosovo

Currently, the Republic of Kosovo is a disputed territory and partially recognized state in the Balkans in south-eastern Europe. When Yugoslavia collapsed, ethnic tensions would erupt into the Kosovo War during the late 1990s. The conflict would eventually lead the UN  to establish an Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo.

In 2005, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan would appoint Martti Ahtisaari to lead the status process in Kosovo. This would lead to the Kosovo assembly declaring its independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008.

Under the Ahtisaari plan, it pledged to be a democratic republic and adopt a new constitution within the next four months. On April 7, 2008, the Kosovo Constitution was signed at the national library in Pristina. On April 9th of the same year, the constitution was ratified and on June 15th it came into full effect.

Observing Constitution Day In Kosovo

On this day, the Prime Minister of Kosovo gives a speech on the importance of this holiday. Since it’s a public holiday, government offices, schools and businesses are also closed on this day. Although there are some other special events held on this day, those are mainly held at the local level.

Where is it celebrated?
Kosovo (Official holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
April 9 Sunday
Next year (2024)
April 9 Tuesday
Last year (2022)
April 9 Saturday