The Constitution of the Principality of Serbia, also known as the Sretenje Constitution, was adopted on Sretenje, a Serbian holiday celebrated on February 15. This holiday marks both the adoption of the first Serbian constitution and an important religious event. The constitution itself, adopted in 1835, represents the first in the history of Serbia, alongside other important legal codes such as the Dusan’s Code, adopted in 1349.
A Modern Constitution Ahead of Its Time
Despite its brief existence, it was one of the most modern, democratic, and liberal constitutions of its time, reflecting the ideals of the French Revolution. However, it was abolished under pressure from the Ottoman Empire, Russia, and Austria, as the constitution was considered too modern for that period. It represented a threat to the monarch’s power by limiting royal authority, and thus these countries saw it as a dangerous example of limiting the power of monarchs. The constitution was abolished on March 17, 1835.
Key Provisions and Legacy
The Constitution established the principle of the separation of powers into the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
It also proclaimed fundamental citizens’ rights and freedoms, including the inviolability of the person, the right to a lawful trial, freedom of movement and residence, the inviolability of the home, and the right to choose one’s occupation.
It further abolished slavery and feudal relations.
Statehood Day Celebration
We wish everyone a happy Statehood Day of the Republic of Serbia, with hopes for a strong, stable, and lawful state.