Two East Anglian councils, Broadland District Council and South Norfolk Council have marked Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations by raising the Ukrainian flag at their headquarters, joining communities across the world in a show of solidarity.
The event on 24 August honours Ukraine’s independence, first declared in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union and later confirmed by a national referendum. Since the Russian invasion of February 2022, the day has taken on renewed significance as a moment of resilience and defiance against aggression.
Broadland District Council’s Chairwoman, Cllr Caroline Karimi-Ghovanlou, said: “We raise the Ukrainian flag today, not only in remembrance but in solidarity. Four years ago the lives of millions were upended by a war that continues to test the resilience, courage and unity of the Ukrainian people.
“This flag is more than a symbol of a nation, it is a beacon of hope, of freedom and of unwavering strength. Let this act of raising our flag be a message that we stand with Ukraine, that we believe in peace, in justice and the right of every nation to live free from fear and oppression. Slava Ukraine.”
South Norfolk Council’s Vice-Chair, Cllr Kathryn Cross, added: “The raising of the Ukrainian flag is a symbol of the Councils’ continued commitment to the Ukrainian people, who are bravely defending their freedom and democratic values. This gesture serves as a reminder of the global community’s responsibility to stand with those fighting for their independence and a just peace.
“We are proud to raise this flag as a testament to our ongoing support for their fight for freedom.”
Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations are a long-standing tradition. Initially observed on 16 July 1991 to mark the anniversary of Ukraine’s Declaration of State Sovereignty, the holiday was later moved to 24 August after the declaration of independence that year. Since then, it has been a central moment in Ukraine’s modern history.
While the holiday was once one of the less popular national observances, its importance has grown sharply. A 2024 survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology showed that 64% of Ukrainians now see Independence Day as one of their most important national holidays, almost doubling in popularity since before the war.
Traditionally, the occasion has been marked with parades in Kyiv and across Ukraine, though since the full-scale invasion by Russia, celebrations have often taken different forms. In 2023, for example, destroyed Russian tanks and armoured vehicles were displayed in central Kyiv as a reminder of Ukraine’s ongoing resistance. Abroad, large-scale Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations have taken place in cities across Europe and North America, uniting the diaspora and international supporters.
By raising the flag, Broadland and South Norfolk Councils joined those global commemorations. The act symbolises not just remembrance of Ukraine’s independence, but also a clear message of continued support for its people as the war enters its fourth year.
