Constitution Day in Vanuatu

A date tied to the constitution

The Constitution was signed on October 5, 1979, before Vanuatu gained independence on July 30, 1980. The Vanuatu Electoral Office says the constitution provides for the country’s democratic institutions and elections, and guarantees fundamental rights including freedom of expression, assembly and association.[2]

Vanuatu’s Parliament describes the constitution as the country’s supreme law. Its preamble presents the republic as united and free, grounded in traditional Melanesian values and mindful of the country’s ethnic, linguistic and cultural diversity. The document also establishes the framework for the executive, Parliament and judiciary.[3]

A national public holiday

The Prime Minister’s Office lists October 5 as Constitution Day among Vanuatu’s public holidays. The government’s holiday listing classifies it as a national holiday, distinguishing it from holidays observed only in particular provinces.[1][4]

The Employment Act says employees generally cannot be required to work on a public holiday unless they voluntarily agree. The rule has exceptions for specified services, including passenger and goods transport, utilities, health care, hotels and restaurants. Employees working under those exceptions are entitled to equivalent time off on another day.[5]

What to expect on the day

The holiday’s official listings confirm its national status and date, but the official sources consulted do not establish a single nationwide programme of ceremonies or customary activities. There is not enough verified information here to describe particular foods, performances or regional traditions as standard Constitution Day observances.[1][4]

The law permits the President to order stores, shops and other businesses to close on public holidays, either throughout Vanuatu or in specified places. It also sets out exceptions for medicines, certain basic foods sold before noon, and refreshments served for consumption on the premises. These provisions do not establish that every shop or business closes each year, so check directly with offices and businesses before visiting.[6]

The Employment Act’s listed exceptions mean some services, including transport, utilities and health care, may operate on a public holiday. The law does not provide a holiday timetable for buses, boats or flights, so travelers should confirm schedules with their operators.[5]