Constitution Day in Micronesia

Constitution Day is a holiday that’s observed in Micronesia on the 10th of May every year. It celebrates the adoption of this country’s 1978 constitution that was first put into effect on May 10, 1979. The constitution of Micronesia is very much like the one of the U.S—which isn’t surprising considering that the U.S was the former trustee of this country.

The Micronesian Constitution calls for a federal system, and a separation of power between the executive, judicial and legislative branches. The main difference between how the U.S and the Micronesian government is set up is with the legislature. The United States has a bicameral legislature that consists of the House and the Senate. The Micronesian legislature is a unicameral one that consists of the National Congress.

The History Of Constitution Day in Micronesia

In 1975, the drafting of the Micronesian Constitution would begin and by October 1, 1978, it was not only written but also ratified as well. The following year it would take effect on May 10, 1979, and Constitution Day was created to observe its enactment. The constitution has remained in effect as the supreme law of the Federated States of Micronesia ever since and has only been amended one time since—in 1990.

Some Fun Facts About Micronesia

Let’s take a quick look at some of the fun facts we’ve uncovered about Micronesia.

  • Micronesia has four different states but is one country.
  • Micronesia uses the U.S dollar as its currency.
  • One of the safest places in the world is the Micronesian island of Kosrae.

Observing Constitution Day in Micronesia

This is a holiday that’s observed all across the Federated States of Micronesia. The president of the country will start things off with a message delivered to the people calling for national unity and a celebration of the Constitution that binds them together as a people.

Although there usually aren’t a lot of celebrations observed in public, many people will use this as a day off and enjoy time with friends and family. It’s a time for having family meals, visiting parks, or even going shopping.

Where is it celebrated?
Micronesia (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
May 10 Wednesday
Next year (2024)
May 10 Friday
Last year (2022)
May 10 Tuesday