President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated the Ukrainian people on Constitution Day, emphasizing the profound significance of the nation’s Basic Law, as stated in his official Telegram channel. The President highlighted that it is the Ukrainian people who, through their daily efforts and selfless struggle, breathe life into the Constitution, upholding the principles of a sovereign, independent, and democratic state.
Adopted on June 28, 1996, after an exhausting 24-hour parliamentary session, the Constitution became the cornerstone of Ukraine’s modern identity. It established the foundations for a strong state, protected private property rights, confirmed Ukrainian as the sole state language, and affirmed Crimea’s status as an autonomous republic within Ukraine. Today, these values are under direct assault by an aggressor that seeks to dismantle Ukraine’s sovereignty, yet the nation stands firm, relying on the resilience of its citizens and the strength of its laws.
The Constitution of Ukraine is designed as a rigid, durable document. Amending it is a rigorous process requiring a supermajority in the Verkhovna Rada, which acts as a constitutional safeguard against threats to national security or the restriction of fundamental civil rights. This stability is crucial as the country navigates the unprecedented challenges of war, ensuring that the legal framework remains intact despite external attempts to destabilize the state.
This year’s celebration takes on a poignant meaning. While citizens reflect on the legal foundations of their country, the reality of the front line remains the primary context for every Ukrainian right. Despite constant threats, the nation continues to move forward, aligning its legal and political systems with European standards. Constitution Day serves as a powerful reminder that Ukraine is not only defending its territory but also protecting a way of life based on liberty, the rule of law, and European values. The enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people, protected by their Basic Law, remains the strongest shield against those who seek to deny their right to exist as a free nation.