Democracy And National Unity Day
Democracy and National Unity Day is a holiday observed in Turkey each year, commemorating the country’s unity against the failed 2016 coup and honoring the brave citizens who lost their lives defending their nation.
Turkey (National holiday)This holiday was first proclaimed as a public holiday in 2017 by President Erdoğan to commemorate the date of the failed coup. Because this day is a public holiday, it is a day off for the general population, and many government agencies and businesses are closed. Events for this holiday take place across Turkey, especially in Istanbul and Ankara.
The History of Democracy and National Unity Day
After a rogue military faction attempted to overthrow President Erdoğan on July 15, 2016, approximately 259 people were killed and over 2,500 were wounded. This attempted coup d’état was suppressed by military troops loyal to the government. The following year, President Erdoğan declared that July 15 should be a holiday known as Democracy and National Unity Day. It has been observed as a public holiday ever since.
Observing Democracy and National Unity Day
In Istanbul and Ankara, events for Democracy and National Unity Day take place. The event usually begins with a program at the Millet Mosque within the National Assembly. Several roads are also closed on this day to accommodate the crowds attending celebratory events.
Because this day is a public holiday, some government agencies and many businesses are closed. It is also a day off for the general population. Many people attend official events, raising Turkey’s flag and taking pictures of Turkey’s President with their phones. People also fill the streets as they walk from Konak Square to Republic Square. Additionally, there are memorial services for the citizens who sacrificed their lives defending the nation against the coup d’état.
Turkey (National holiday)
