The Unification Act: A Pivotal Moment in Ukrainian History

Known in Ukrainian as Акт Злуки (romanized: Akt Zluky), often translated as the "Act of Unification" or simply "Act Zluky", and also referred to as Велика Злука (Velyka Zluka), meaning the "Great Unification", the Unification Act was a monumental agreement signed on January 22, 1919. This historic pact brought together the aspirations of two distinct Ukrainian entities: the Ukrainian People's Republic (UNR) and the West Ukrainian People's Republic (ZUNR). The signing ceremony, imbued with profound national symbolism, took place on the revered St. Sophia Square in Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine.

Historical Context: The Dawn of Ukrainian Independence

The early 20th century was a tumultuous period, marked by the collapse of vast empires and the emergence of new nation-states. Following the dissolution of the Russian Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I, two independent Ukrainian states arose, each with distinct historical trajectories:

• The Ukrainian People's Republic (UNR): Formed in central and eastern Ukraine, this entity emerged from the turmoil of the Russian Revolution, declaring its full independence in January 1918. The UNR's government sought to establish a sovereign Ukrainian state on lands historically associated with the Cossack Hetmanate and various Ukrainian national liberation movements.
• The West Ukrainian People's Republic (ZUNR): Established in the autumn of 1918, the ZUNR encompassed the Ukrainian-inhabited territories of former Austro-Hungarian Galicia, Bukovina, and Transcarpathia. This newly formed republic aimed to consolidate ethnic Ukrainian lands that had long been under foreign rule within the Austro-Hungarian imperial framework.

The Unification Act was the culmination of long-held desires for a unified, independent Ukrainian state, reflecting the collective will of the Ukrainian people to overcome centuries of geopolitical division and foreign domination.

The Act's Significance and the Day of Unity of Ukraine

The signing of the Akt Zluky on January 22, 1919, was a powerful symbolic gesture of national unity, demonstrating Ukraine's profound aspiration for a single, sovereign state. While the complex political and military realities of the time, including the ongoing Polish-Soviet War and various internal conflicts, unfortunately led to the eventual short-lived nature of this direct political unification, its enduring significance as a beacon of national aspiration and territorial integrity has never waned.

Since 1999, to commemorate this seminal event, the Day of Unity of Ukraine (Ukrainian: День Соборності України, Den Sobornosti Ukrainy) has been celebrated annually on January 22. This day holds the status of a state holiday, meaning it is officially recognized and observed with national ceremonies and events across the country. However, it is important to note that it is not designated as a public holiday, so businesses and schools typically remain open. Despite this, the Day of Unity is marked by various commemorative activities, including official rallies, educational initiatives, and the symbolic "Human Chain" (Zhyvyi Lantzyh) demonstrations, which first gained prominence in 1990. These human chains physically connect cities like Kyiv and Lviv, symbolizing the spiritual and historical unity of eastern and western Ukraine.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Unification Act

What is the Unification Act (Akt Zluky)?

The Unification Act, also known as Akt Zluky or Velyka Zluka, was a formal agreement signed on January 22, 1919, symbolizing the unification of the Ukrainian People's Republic (UNR) and the West Ukrainian People's Republic (ZUNR) into a single, independent Ukrainian state.

When and where was the Unification Act signed?

It was signed on January 22, 1919, at a momentous ceremony held on St. Sophia Square in Kyiv, the historic capital of Ukraine.

Who were the main signatories of the Akt Zluky?

The agreement was signed by official representatives of the Ukrainian People's Republic, which governed central and eastern Ukrainian territories, and the West Ukrainian People's Republic, which represented western Ukrainian lands from the former Austro-Hungarian Empire.

What is the significance of the Day of Unity of Ukraine?

The Day of Unity of Ukraine, celebrated annually on January 22, commemorates the signing of the Unification Act. It serves as a powerful reminder of the historical aspiration for a united, independent Ukraine and symbolizes the territorial integrity, national consolidation, and enduring solidarity of the Ukrainian state.

Is the Day of Unity of Ukraine a public holiday?

No, while it is a recognized state holiday in Ukraine, it is not designated as a public holiday, meaning it is not a day off from work or school for the general public. It is primarily observed through official ceremonies, educational events, and public commemorations.