By H.E. Yerkin Akhinzhanov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of South Africa
On October 25, the Republic of Kazakhstan celebrates Republic Day, a national holiday that marks one of the most significant milestones in the country’s modern history. This year, the nation observes the 35th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration on State Sovereignty of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic, a pivotal document that laid the foundation for Kazakhstan’s independence and statehood.
The Birth of Sovereignty
The late 1980s were a time of profound change within the Soviet Union. The period was marked by perestroika (translated from Russian as “restructuring”), a policy aimed at reforming the political and economic systems of the USSR. These reforms led to greater openness and the rise of national consciousness among the union republics, many of which began to aspire to greater autonomy and self-determination.
In this transformative context, the Supreme Council of the Kazakh SSR adopted the Declaration on State Sovereignty on October 25, 1990.
This landmark act affirmed the Kazakh people’s right to self-governance, political autonomy, and ownership of their natural resources. It declared the supremacy of the Constitution and laws of the Kazakh SSR within its territory and recognized the republic’s right to suspend the application of union acts that violated its sovereign interests.
The Declaration also introduced the concepts of the citizenship of the Republic of Kazakhstan, economic independence, and ownership of the nation’s natural and scientific potential. For the first time, it proclaimed that the people of Kazakhstan were the sole source of state power and emphasized the national character of the state, moving beyond class-based definitions that had previously shaped governance.
Historical and Legal Significance
The Declaration on State Sovereignty became a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s transition toward full independence. It provided the legal and ideological framework for the establishment of a democratic state guided by the principles of rule of law, territorial integrity, and political pluralism.
Equally important, it reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s centuries-old tradition of statehood, highlighting the continuity of national governance and the unity of its people. By granting the republic the right to conduct foreign relations and participate in international organizations, the Declaration positioned Kazakhstan as an emerging subject of international law.
From Sovereignty to Independence
The principles enshrined in the Declaration paved the way for subsequent historic events. In December 1991, Kazakhstan held its first presidential election, followed by the renaming of the state to the Republic of Kazakhstan and, on December 16, the formal proclamation of independence.
From that moment, Kazakhstan entered a new era of national development, establishing its own institutions of governance, an independent economic system, and armed forces. The adoption of the Law on State Independence marked the final step in the realization of the aspirations first outlined in the 1990 Declaration.
Establishment of Republic Day
Republic Day was first introduced as a national holiday in 1995 by Presidential Decree, symbolizing the origins of Kazakhstan’s sovereignty. It later became a state holiday and an official day off. Although the date was temporarily excluded from the list of national holidays in 2009, it was reinstated in 2022 following amendments to the Law on Holidays in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that the restoration of Republic Day aims to strengthen national unity, highlight the historical continuity of Kazakhstan’s statehood, and instill pride in the country’s sovereign achievements.
The Meaning of Republic Day Today
Today, Republic Day represents not only a remembrance of the past but also a reaffirmation of Kazakhstan’s enduring values of independence, civic responsibility, and patriotism. The principles enshrined in the Declaration continue to serve as guiding foundations for the state’s modernization and reforms across all sectors of society.
The celebration reinforces the importance of unity, respect for the nation’s history, and the collective aspiration to build a just and prosperous Kazakhstan. It honors the contributions of public figures, intellectuals, and citizens who have played a role in strengthening the country’s sovereignty and identity.
Kazakhstan: Born Bold
In line with the spirit of the Declaration, Kazakhstan continues to move forward with confidence and vision. The idea of a “Kazakhstan: Born Bold” reflects the country’s dynamic and forward-looking character, as well as its determination to shape its own future.
This concept underscores Kazakhstan’s commitment to sustainable growth, diversification of its economy, and the development of new industries such as technology, renewable energy, and finance. It highlights the country’s openness to global partnerships and its role as a bridge between continents, cultures, and economies.
Most importantly, it reflects the character of the Kazakh people – confident, resilient, and enterprising. Kazakhstan’s strength lies in its young, educated, and ambitious population that continues to drive the nation toward innovation and prosperity.
Celebration of the Holiday
Republic Day is widely celebrated across Kazakhstan and abroad. The program includes official ceremonies, concerts, patriotic campaigns, exhibitions, and academic conferences devoted to the history and significance of the Declaration. Through these events, the Republic Day embodies the spirit of national pride and unity, serving as a reminder of the enduring values that continue to shape Kazakhstan’s independent development.
Reflections by the Head of State
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly emphasized the historic meaning of the Declaration and its role in shaping the country’s future.
“The Declaration of State Sovereignty of Kazakhstan opened the way to our sacred Independence. Therefore, this document is of historic significance. Since this year, we are celebrating the Republic Day in a new way, this day has received the status of a national holiday. I am confident that this endeavor will be widely supported in our society and will become a good tradition.” (From the congratulatory speech by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, October 25, 2022, Astana, akorda.kz)
“Republic Day stands as a majestic symbol of the fulfillment of our people’s centuries-old dream of Independence. This holiday reminds us that through unity and solidarity, our nation has always overcome any challenges and trials. Following the legacy of our ancestors, we continue to preserve and strengthen national unity, honoring and safeguarding our sovereignty with deep reverence.” (From the congratulatory speech by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, October 25, 2023, Astana, akorda.kz)
A Symbol of Continuity and Progress
Marking 35 years since the adoption of the Declaration on State Sovereignty, Republic Day stands as a reminder of the wisdom, resilience, and unity of the Kazakh people. It embodies the nation’s path from the affirmation of sovereignty to the achievement of full independence and ongoing progress in state-building.
Republic Day continues to inspire citizens to look toward the future with confidence and pride, guided by the principles that have shaped Kazakhstan into a strong, just, and independent state.