May 28

Armed Forces Day in Croatia is celebrated each year on May 28 to honor the dedication and sacrifices of the Croatian military personnel. The holiday commemorates the day the Croatian Armed Forces were officially established in 1991 during the Homeland War. Various ceremonies, parades, and wreath-laying events take place at military monuments and memorials across the country. Families of service members and veterans pay tribute to those who served in defense of Croatian independence. The president and defense minister often attend formal events at the Ministry of Defense headquarters. Educational programs in schools highlight the role of the armed forces in Croatia’s history and security. This day fosters national pride and gratitude toward the soldiers who safeguard the nation.

Philippine Flag Day is observed each year starting May 28 and lasting until National Flag Day on June 12. The date was chosen to commemorate the first unfurling of the Philippine flag after the triumph at the battle of Alapan in 1898. During this period, government offices and private establishments are encouraged to display the national flag. Ceremonies include flag-raising events, parades, and cultural presentations highlighting Philippine heritage. Schools organize educational activities to teach students about the flag’s history, colors, and symbols. The public is reminded of the flag’s role in embodying the Filipino people’s struggle for freedom and independence. Flag Day fosters national pride and unity as citizens pay homage to the enduring symbol of the nation.

Republic Day in Nepal is observed annually on May 28 to celebrate the country’s transition to a federal democratic republic in 2008. The day marks the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a republican form of government. Official ceremonies include flag hoisting, military parades, and public addresses by the president and other leaders. Cultural programs showcasing Nepal’s diverse ethnic traditions are organized in Kathmandu and other regions. Citizens participate in street festivals, fairs, and community events that foster national unity and pride. Educational institutions host discussions on Nepal’s political history and the significance of republican governance. Republic Day reflects the nation’s commitment to democracy, inclusion, and progress for all Nepalis.

On May 28, 1918, both Armenia and Azerbaijan declared independence from the short-lived Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic. This pivotal moment led to the formation of the First Republic of Armenia and the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. Though the federative state collapsed after only a month, each new republic asserted national sovereignty. Azerbaijan continues to celebrate May 28 as Republic Day, commemorating its emergence as the first secular democratic republic in the Muslim world. In Armenia, the day is remembered by historians and cultural groups as the birth of modern Armenian statehood. Events include wreath-laying at historical monuments, scholarly lectures, and cultural performances. This commemoration underscores the enduring legacy of statehood and independence in both nations’ modern histories.

Youm-e-Takbir, observed on May 28 in Pakistan, commemorates the nation’s first public nuclear weapon tests in 1998. The term translates to 'Day of Greatness,' reflecting Pakistan’s assertion of nuclear capability. Civil and military leaders deliver speeches praising the scientific achievement and its impact on national security. Ceremonies include flag-raising, parades, and seminars on nuclear science and peaceful applications of atomic energy. Media channels broadcast documentaries and interviews with the scientists and engineers behind the tests. Educational institutions hold symposiums to discuss nuclear safety, non-proliferation, and Pakistan’s defense strategy. Youm-e-Takbir highlights the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and national pride in Pakistan’s modern history.