Every year on May 28, Azerbaijan marks Republic Day, commemorating the founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) in 1918. Though short-lived, the ADR laid the foundation for modern Azerbaijani identity. Emerging from the collapse of the Russian Empire, it became the first secular, democratic republic in the Muslim world – a bold assertion of equality, civil rights and national vision. Even more groundbreaking was Azerbaijan’s status as the first Muslim-majority nation to grant women the right to vote, a landmark moment in the advancement of women’s rights (Eurasia Travel). Today, May 28 symbolises Azerbaijan’s emergence as a modern, independent nation, bridging Eastern traditions with Western ideals.

Yes, the ADR lasted only 23 months before the Soviet takeover – but what it built in that short time left a lasting legacy. When Azerbaijan regained independence in 1991, it felt like a return to the ideals first set forth in 1918: equality, self-determination and national pride. In 1992, May 28 was officially declared Republic Day – not only to honour that legacy, but to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to freedom, democracy and sovereignty. The symbolism of this date runs deep, even in the renaming of metro stations: Baku’s ‘28th of May’ station, once called ‘28th April’ during Soviet rule, now stands as a clear marker of how we choose to remember our history.

Today, Republic Day is more than a public holiday – it is a proud national celebration marked by official ceremonies, cultural events and parades across the country. In Baku, ceremonies at Buta Palace and the Republic Monument bring together officials and citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey. Many schools also take the opportunity to teach students about the nation’s past, using the holiday to deepen young people’s understanding of Azerbaijan’s journey to independence.

For me, this day is a powerful reminder that even the briefest moments in history can shape a nation for generations to come. We must carry forward the courage and vision of those who first dared to dream of a free Azerbaijan. It is a call to remember that freedom is never guaranteed – and that our past must be honoured as we shape our future.