31 AUGUST — THE DAY OF THE DECLARATION OF UZBEKISTAN’S INDEPENDENCE AND THE “DAY OF REMEMBRANCE OF VICTIMS OF REPRESSION”

On 31 August 1991, at an extraordinary session of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the state independence of the country was declared, and the “Uzbekistan SSR” was officially renamed the “Republic of Uzbekistan”. On the same day, the Law “On the Foundations of State Independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan” was also adopted.

This decision was the practical expression of our people’s eternal aspiration to determine their own destiny and to build a free and sovereign state. Thus, 1 September was inscribed in history as the greatest and most cherished day for our people — “Independence Day”.

Since 2001, 31 August has also been designated, by Presidential decree, as the “Day of Remembrance of Victims of Repression”. This date serves to honor those who were unjustly persecuted and punished during the totalitarian regime, who sacrificed their lives for the nation and the homeland, and to preserve our national memory.

The “Memorial to the Victims of Repression” in Tashkent stands as a sacred site that immortalizes the memory of these devoted individuals, strengthens national identity, and serves to educate future generations.

31 August — on the eve of independence leaves an indelible mark in our hearts as the day when not only national freedom was achieved, but also historical justice was restored. This date is a spiritual bridge connecting the past, present, and future of our homeland.