November 12 - Constitution Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan

12.11.2026

November 12 - Constitution Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan

The legal foundation of every independent state is its Constitution. It defines the system of government, the principles by which public authorities operate, and the main guarantees of the rights and freedoms of people and citizens. In Azerbaijan, November 12 is marked every year as Constitution Day. This date holds an important place in the legal and democratic development of our independent state.

When was the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan adopted?

The first Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the period of independence was adopted on November 12, 1995, by a nationwide vote – a referendum. The Basic Law came into force on November 27 of the same year. The draft was prepared by a commission chaired by Heydar Aliyev. In later years – in 2002, 2009 and 2016 – amendments and additions were made to the Constitution following referendums.

Why the Constitution matters for the state and society

The Constitution is the state’s supreme legal document and the basis of the country’s legal system. It sets the framework for how state power is organized, what powers state bodies hold, and what core legal guarantees citizens have.

Protection of human rights and freedoms

The Constitution sets out the main legal guarantees of the rights and freedoms of people and citizens. Respect for and protection of human rights is one of the key principles of a state governed by the rule of law.

The rule of law

The rule of law is one of the core principles of a legal state. It means that state bodies and members of society must follow laws and legal norms in everything they do.

Legal foundations of public administration

The Constitution defines how state power is organized, the powers of the legislative, executive and judicial branches, and the framework in which state bodies operate.

Civic responsibility and legal education

When every citizen knows their rights and duties, society’s legal awareness grows. Legal knowledge helps people act more responsibly and take part in public life in an informed way.

November 12 - a landmark day in our legal statehood

Constitution Day is not only a time to recall a historic event. It is also a chance to stress once more the value of protecting rights, the rule of law and civic responsibility.

The Constitution defines the legal foundations of the state, shapes the framework of relations between society and the state, and plays an important role in ensuring the rights and freedoms of every citizen.