Fatima Tuz Zehra, Editor-in-Chief of The Gulf Observer and President of the Gulf Observer Research Forum, wrote an exclusive article entitled “Expert: National Revival Day – Azerbaijan’s Journey to Independence” for AZERTAC. AZERTAC presents the full version of the article:

“One of the most important events in the contemporary history of Azerbaijan is National Revival Day – the event that sparked the flame of the national spirit, struggle, and fighting until the very last drop of blood,” said Fatima Tuz Zehra, Editor-in-Chief of The Gulf Observer and President of the Gulf Observer Research Forum.

On 17 November 1988, a historic movement against the anti-Azerbaijani policies of the Soviet leadership on the Karabakh issue and the open military aggression of Armenia began in Azadlig Square in Baku. Citizens took to the streets in their thousands to voice their dissent, which triggered a resistance that would change the future of Azerbaijan.

Only several days later, on 22 November 1988, the Soviet government sent a considerable number of military forces to Baku and imposed a strict curfew. Even under greater pressure and restrictions, the Azerbaijani people were not intimidated. The demonstrations lasted until the evening of 5 December, when Soviet troops savagely stopped the demonstrations all over the country by deploying their forces and armored vehicles. This sad yet fateful event became the real awakening of the national movement in Azerbaijan and entered the country’s history as National Revival Day.

A Turning Point Towards Independence

National Revival Day represents one of the fundamental steps for the Azerbaijani people in their struggle for freedom and self-rule. On 17 November 1990, in a historic session of the Supreme Council of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic chaired by the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, it was decided to restore the tricolor flag of the former Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. This historic decision marked the revival of national consciousness and the beginning of the transition from revival to progress. The political wisdom, forward-looking vision, and courageous leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev guided independent Azerbaijan toward modern statehood and development. Today, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, continues to uphold that vision, thereby ensuring stability, growth, and continuity.

Reconstruction and National Pride

The resolute will of the Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev, has further defined contemporary Azerbaijani history through his leadership and strategy. Thanks to unwavering political determination and military strength, Azerbaijan ultimately recaptured its historical territories, thereby restoring its territorial integrity.

National Revival Day is observed with deep pride throughout the country – and especially in the liberated territories – on 17 November each year. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made, the unity displayed, and the indomitable spirit that led the nation out of oppression and toward sovereignty.