Croatia Independence Day
Thursday, June 25, 2026
In 1918, Yugoslavia. Formation. Croatia becomes a part of the newly formed Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia
History
Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia on June 25, 1991, marking the end of its association with the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Croatia had been part of Yugoslavia since 1918, first as part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. Following the death of Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito in 1980, growing nationalist movements in Croatia demanded greater autonomy and eventual independence. The Slovenian and Croatian declarations of independence in 1991 triggered the Ten-Day War and eventually the Yugoslav Wars. After a brief transition period following the Brioni Agreement, Croatia formally severed ties with Yugoslavia. The country's independence was achieved through a combination of political declaration and armed struggle, and was internationally recognized over the following years. June 25 is now celebrated as Statehood Day in Croatia.
How It's Celebrated
Celebrate by learning more about the occasion, sharing on social media with relevant hashtags, participating in community events, or taking small personal actions that align with the day's theme.