May 20 Revolution in Western Sahara
May 20 Revolution commemorates the start of the Sahrawi armed struggle against Spanish colonial rule in 1973. The anniversary is a national occasion linked to the struggle for self-determination.[1][2]
What the date commemorates
On May 20, 1973, a group of Sahrawis attacked the Spanish post at El Khanga, east of Smara. The Sahrawi Republic’s report to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights identifies the date as the launch of the armed struggle against Spanish colonialism.[1]
The anniversary is distinct from May 10, the founding date of the Polisario Front in 1973. The two dates mark related but separate events in the Sahrawi national calendar.[1]
Meaning and commemoration
The anniversary recalls the beginning of armed resistance and the Sahrawi pursuit of independence and self-determination. It also connects to the wider political, diplomatic and military dimensions of the national struggle, as described in Sahrawi and Algerian reporting.[1][2]
Annual commemorations include popular gatherings and political and cultural conferences reviewing the national struggle and developments in the Western Sahara question, with observances in occupied territories, refugee camps and the diaspora.[2]
Public-holiday status and practical plans
May 20 is listed among the Sahrawi Republic’s national days.[1] Check with your employer about work arrangements and with local authorities about any substitute day.
Check opening times and service schedules with local institutions and providers before making plans.[2] The UN describes MINURSO as a mission established to support settlement proposals and the ceasefire, and says it continues to monitor and report on the situation in Western Sahara.[3]
Frequently asked questions
What does May 20 Revolution commemorate?
When is the anniversary?
The anniversary is on May 20, the date of the launch of the armed struggle. May 10 is the founding date of the Polisario Front.[1]
Is it a day off?
May 20 is listed among the Sahrawi Republic’s national days.[1] Check with your employer about work arrangements and with local authorities about any substitute day.
What is open on the holiday?
Check opening times and service schedules with local offices, banks, shops and transport providers before you travel.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for May 20 Revolution in Western Sahara:
- The Combined periodic report of all outstanding reports covering the period 2013 to 2025 of the Saharawi Republic submitted to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights- Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, submitted to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
- 53e anniversaire de la lutte armée sahraouie: attachement constant au droit à l'autodétermination et à l'indépendance- Radio Algérienne; article credits APS
- MINURSO Fact Sheet- United Nations Peacekeeping