On May 4, Latvia marks one of the most significant milestones in its modern history – the adoption of the declaration on the restoration of independence of the Republic of Latvia.
On this day in 1990, the Supreme Soviet of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic adopted the historic declaration that set Latvia on the path to restoring its independence and re-establishing its sovereignty after decades of Soviet occupation.
The declaration stated that Latvia’s incorporation into the Soviet Union in 1940 had been illegally carried out, and therefore the Republic of Latvia had continued to exist de jure throughout the period of occupation.
The decision followed the first relatively free elections in Soviet Latvia, held in March 1990, which reflected growing public support for independence.
The declaration also outlined a transitional period toward full independence, during which Latvia would restore its democratic institutions and constitutional order, while reaffirming its commitment to international law and human rights.
Although May 4 marked a decisive step away from Soviet rule, Latvia’s full de facto independence was achieved later. On August 21, 1991, amid the collapse of the Soviet Union, Latvia adopted a constitutional law restoring full statehood. Shortly thereafter, on September 6, 1991, the Soviet Union officially recognized Latvia’s independence, alongside the other Baltic states.
Today, May 4 is celebrated as the day of the restoration of Latvian independence and is a national holiday across the country. It is marked by public events, including concerts, community gatherings, and official ceremonies.
For Latvians, May 4 stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, continuity of statehood, and the enduring determination to restore national independence.
