Day Of Remembrance And Respect To Victims Of The Communist Regime

Day of Remembrance and Respect to Victims of the Communist Regime is a day that’s observed on February 1st annually and honors the victims of Bulgaria’s communist era. In 1945, the “People’s Court” of the communist regime passed down death penalties to a large number of people and it was on the 1st of February that year that the executions were carried out.

This day also commemorates all of the other victims of communism who were imprisoned, killed outside of judicial hearings, or who “disappeared” before they could even get a trial. This holiday has been observed since 2011.

The History Of Day Of Remembrance And Respect To Victims Of The Communist Regime

In 1945, the communists passed down sentences of harsh imprisonment to a large number of people and also passed down death sentences to members of the former regime. Approximately 47 generals, 67 Parliament members, 22 Cabinet ministers, and 3 regents were sentenced to death. On February 1, 1945, they were then executed.

In 2011, the government decreed that this day be observed every year in order to keep alive the truth about the communist regime and to keep alive the memories of all of those who have died from it. It’s a holiday that’s since been celebrated every year through a presidential decree.

Observing Day Of Remembrance And Respect To Victims Of The Communist Regime

On this day, wreaths are laid at memorials remembering the victims of the communist regimes and politicians giving speeches. People will also spend time with their friends and family members.

Since this isn’t a public holiday, however, most businesses will remain open on this day. This is a day for the people of Bulgaria to reflect on the sins of the previous communist regime and to commemorate all of the people who were victims of that regime.

Where is it celebrated?
Bulgaria (Observance)
When is it?
This year (2023)
February 1 Wednesday
Next year (2024)
February 1 Thursday
Last year (2022)
February 1 Tuesday