Незалежна Україна: історія незламного народу

Celebration of Independence Day in Ukraine

• Ukraine celebrates the 32nd anniversary of Independence on August 24.
• Independence Day is significant as Ukrainians currently fight for their independence.
• The Act of Proclamation of Independence was passed by parliament on August 24, followed by a nationwide referendum.

Historical Development of Independence

• On July 16, 1990, the Declaration of State Sovereignty was adopted, granting Ukraine rights to establish relations with other countries and manage its own scientific, educational, and cultural affairs.
• A parliamentary resolution declared March 17, 1991, as a date for a referendum regarding remaining within the Union of Sovereign Republics; 80% of voters supported remaining in the USSR.
• The first anniversary of independence was commemorated on July 16, 1991, while Ukraine was still part of the USSR.

Key Events Leading to Legal Independence

• Following the August Coup attempt against Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev in 1991, Parliament proclaimed independence on August 24.
• The proclamation document contained 93 words, typed on a single sheet of paper.
• To legally validate independence and counter any potential objections, a nationwide referendum was scheduled for December 1, 1991.

March 1991 Referendum Outcome

• The referendum question asked voters whether they confirmed the Act of Proclamation of Independence.
• A record participation of 31,891,742 people (84.18% of the population) resulted in 90.32% voting in favor of independence.

Legislative Changes Post-Referendum

• On February 20, 1992, Parliament adopted a new statement declaring August 24 as Independence Day.
• Since 1992, Independence Day has been officially celebrated on August 24 each year.

Insights from Levko Lukyanenko

• Levko Lukyanenko emphasized the urgency of drafting a straightforward independence bill to avoid prolonged discussions that could hinder its passage.