The Democracy and National Unity Day of Turkey
The Democracy and National Unity Day of Turkey
The Democracy and National Unity Day of Turkey is a public holiday commemorating the national unity against the failed coup d’état attempt on July 15, 2016. This day honors those who lost their lives defending democracy and celebrates the resilience of the Turkish people.
Quick facts
- When is it?: July 15th annually
- Tagged as: National holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #DemocracyAndNationalUnityDay
- When was it founded?: 2017
- Who founded it?: President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
History of Democracy and National Unity Day
On July 15, 2016, a faction within the Turkish military attempted to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government. The coup attempt was thwarted by loyal military troops and civilians who took to the streets to defend democracy. In the aftermath, 259 people lost their lives, and over 2,500 were wounded. The government blamed the coup attempt on US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, though he denied involvement.
Timeline
- July 15, 2016: Failed coup attempt takes place
- July 16, 2016: Coup attempt is defeated
- October 11, 2016: Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım announces preparation of a new law to establish the holiday
- 2017: President Erdoğan declares July 15th as a public holiday
Democracy and National Unity Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 15 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | July 15 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | July 15 | Thursday |
| 2028 | July 15 | Saturday |
| 2029 | July 15 | Sunday |
| 2030 | July 15 | Monday |
Observed Democracy and National Unity Day
The day is marked by various events and ceremonies throughout Turkey, particularly in Istanbul and Ankara. In Istanbul, the Bosphorus Bridge, renamed the “15th July Martyrs’ Bridge,” serves as a focal point for commemorations. People gather for solemn ceremonies, cultural events, and public gatherings to honor the sacrifices made and reaffirm their commitment to democratic values.
In Ankara, the July 15 Kızılay National Will Square hosts memorial events. Government officials, including the President, often visit families of those who lost their lives during the failed coup.
Nationwide, schools are decorated a week prior to the holiday, and exhibitions featuring artwork and poems depicting the events of July 15th are displayed. Many cities organize parades, concerts, and special programs to mark the occasion.
Fun Facts About Democracy and National Unity Day
- The Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul was renamed “15th July Martyrs’ Bridge” to honor those who died during the coup attempt.
- A “Democracy and National Unity Train” runs for two months, covering 56,000 kilometers on the Ankara-Istanbul and Ankara-Konya lines.
- Some cities organize unique events like bicycle tours and javelin competitions to commemorate the day.
- Many institutions, including universities and cultural centers, host exhibitions and panel discussions about the importance of democracy.
- The day is marked not only in Turkey but also by Turkish communities around the world.
Quiz
- When is Democracy and National Unity Day celebrated in Turkey?
- What event does this day commemorate?
- In which year was the holiday first established?
- What was the Bosphorus Bridge renamed to after the events of July 15, 2016?
- How many people lost their lives during the failed coup attempt?
(Answers: 1. July 15th, 2. The failed coup attempt of 2016, 3. 2017, 4. 15th July Martyrs’ Bridge, 5. 259)
FAQs
Q: Is Democracy and National Unity Day a public holiday in Turkey?
A: Yes, it is an official public holiday, and government offices are closed on this day.
Q: How do people in Turkey typically celebrate this day?
A: People participate in memorial services, attend parades, visit exhibitions, and join in various cultural events organized throughout the country.
Q: Are there any specific symbols associated with this day?
A: The Turkish flag is prominently displayed, and images of those who lost their lives during the coup attempt are often featured in commemorations.
Q: Do schools in Turkey have special programs for this day?
A: Yes, schools often organize week-long activities leading up to July 15th, including art exhibitions and educational programs about democracy.
Q: Is the day recognized internationally?
A: While it’s primarily a Turkish national holiday, Turkish embassies and communities worldwide often organize events to mark the day.
Importance of Democracy and National Unity Day
Democracy and National Unity Day holds immense significance for Turkey as it symbolizes the triumph of democracy over forces that sought to undermine it. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the Turkish people’s commitment to democratic principles and their willingness to defend these values at great personal cost.
For many Turks, this day represents a moment of national pride and unity. It commemorates not just the defeat of a coup attempt, but also the collective strength and resilience of the nation in the face of adversity. The holiday reinforces the importance of civic engagement and the role of citizens in safeguarding democratic institutions.
Moreover, Democracy and National Unity Day provides an opportunity for reflection on the value of freedom and the ongoing need to protect and nurture democratic processes. It serves as an annual reaffirmation of Turkey’s commitment to democracy and national sovereignty, fostering a sense of shared purpose and unity among its citizens.
Related
- Turkish Independence Day
- Republic Day of Turkey
- Atatürk Commemoration and Youth and Sports Day
- Turkish Armed Forces Day
- Turkish Victory Day
