Freedom and Democracy Day in Chad

A national paid holiday

A 1997 decree lists December 1 as Freedom and Democracy Day and classifies it as a nationwide holiday that is non-working and paid. The decree says that when one of the holidays in this category falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a paid non-working holiday.[1]

The same decree says that this holiday status cannot be used to reduce monthly, twice-monthly or weekly salaries. It also provides compensation rules for some workers paid by the hour, day or output, and for employees required to work on the holiday.[1]

The events remembered

The date refers to December 1, 1990, when the Patriotic Salvation Movement, led by Idriss Déby, drove Hissène Habré from power. Chad’s presidency biography describes Habré as being forced out of the country that day; the state news agency says the change was presented as the beginning of a new political era.[2][3]

In his first address to the nation, Déby spoke of freedom and called for a pluralist democracy, including freedoms of association, opinion, trade unions, the press and religion. The day’s official name reflects that political message, although the address describes an aspiration rather than proof that those ideals were fully achieved.[4]

Public observances

An account by Chad’s state news agency documents an official observance that included a military ceremony and parade at Place de la Nation in N’Djamena, attended by the president and members of the public. It also records public recognition of the day’s importance and debate about how democracy should be strengthened.[2]

Check local sources for family customs, traditional dishes or events.[2]

Planning around the holiday

Freedom and Democracy Day is a nationwide paid, non-working holiday. Check opening hours with the school, business or service before you go.[1]