May 28 – Azerbaijan’s Independence Day: A Symbol of Pride and Freedom

May 28 is one of the most significant national holidays in Azerbaijan, celebrated with pride and joy across the country. In 2025, Azerbaijan marks the 107th anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) — the first secular and democratic state in the Muslim East. On this day, the people of Azerbaijan proudly and gratefully commemorate the historic events of 1918.But why is this day so important for the nation, and how did the country reach its independence? Let’s dive into history and explore the key milestones of Azerbaijan’s road to freedom.

🔙 The Road to Independence

In the early 20th century, Azerbaijan was part of the Russian Empire. Social and cultural oppression was especially harsh for the Muslim population. Azerbaijanis faced serious obstacles in receiving education in their native language and were heavily restricted in terms of career and civil rights. The Russian imperial government encouraged the settlement of Russian, Armenian, and German communities, often granting them special privileges.

At the same time, the economy was struggling. Although Baku was a global leader in oil production, the local petroleum industry was experiencing a decline. Most of the oil fields were controlled by foreign and Russian entrepreneurs, who heavily exploited Azerbaijani workers. Laborers endured 12–15 hour shifts in dangerous conditions for minimal wages. Lack of modern technology and safety standards led to frequent injuries and tragedies.

Cultural imbalance was also apparent. Christian communities in the South Caucasus freely published newspapers, opened churches, and promoted education, while the Muslim population was denied similar rights. Yet, even under these harsh conditions, a powerful national awakening began to take root among Azerbaijanis.

🌟 The Great Minds That Inspired a Nation

Despite the restrictions, the early 20th century witnessed a growing national consciousness. Enlighteners, scholars, journalists, and public figures like Hasan bey Zardabi, Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh, Ahmad Agayev, Fatali Khan Khoyski, and Alimardan bey Topchubashov played pivotal roles in shaping public opinion and promoting cultural and political revival.

They organized All-Russian Muslim Congresses, established political parties and social organizations, and spoke out against the injustices of the Tsarist regime. Their activism laid the groundwork for the idea of an independent Azerbaijani state.

🕊 A Defining Moment in History: The Birth of the Republic

Following the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1917, political reorganization swept through the Caucasus.In February 1918, the Transcaucasian Sejm was formed in Tbilisi, including 44 delegates from the Azerbaijani faction. However, due to internal disagreements, Georgia declared its independence. Soon after, on May 27, Azerbaijani delegates held a separate meeting, where they decided to form a National Council.

On May 28, 1918, the Azerbaijan National Council officially proclaimed the country’s independence. Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh was elected as the Council's chairman, and Fatali Khan Khoyski became the first Prime Minister of the newly formed republic.

📜 Key Points of the Declaration of Independence:

Azerbaijan proclaimed itself an independent and sovereign nation encompassing the eastern and southern parts of the Caucasus;

Azerbaijan chose a democratic republic as its form of government;

Equal civil and political rights were assured for all citizens, regardless of ethnicity, faith, gender, or social background;

All ethnic communities residing within Azerbaijan were granted broad opportunities for cultural and political self-expression.

Until the convocation of the Constituent Assembly, the country would be governed by the National Council and a Provisional Government.

The government of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was first located in Tbilisi, then relocated to Ganja, and finally established itself in Baku in September 1918. One of the most groundbreaking achievements of the republic was the establishment of the first parliamentary system in the Muslim East and granting women the right to vote — an unprecedented step in the region.

The parliament included 120 deputies — 80 representing Azerbaijanis and 40 from ethnic minorities. During its 23-month existence, the parliament held 155 sessions and reviewed more than 270 legislative proposals — 230 of which were passed into law.

The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic gained recognition from 16 countries, including France, Italy, the USA, Turkey, Iran, and Georgia. However, Soviet Russia refused to acknowledge its independence. In April 1920, taking advantage of the republic's military weakness, Bolshevik forces invaded and established Soviet control over Azerbaijan.

Though the ADR lasted less than two years, its legacy is invaluable. It marked the first attempt to build a democratic, secular, and national state in the Muslim East. The date of its founding — May 28 — remains a lasting symbol of freedom, honor, and the unyielding spirit of the Azerbaijani people.

Today, Azerbaijan is a free and independent country, confidently stepping into the future. But the foundation of this sovereignty was laid on May 28, 1918.

Every year on May 28, Azerbaijan marks the occasion with heartfelt national pride and a profound sense of patriotism. The day is filled with official ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions, and educational events:

📍 Flag Square in Baku – the heart of the celebrations

🎤 Concerts and festivals – from traditional mugham to modern pop

🏛 Visit to the ADR History Museum in Baku

📚 Lectures and exhibitions in schools and universities

Because it is the day Azerbaijan declared itself a free and sovereign nation. It reminds us that freedom is not a gift — it is earned. And the heroes of the past are the pillars of the future.