worldwide public holidays news and updates of the past two weeks
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Jordanian Declares April 28 and May 5-6 Public Holidays Source: Jordan News Agency Petra (Amman). Jordanian Prime Minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, has announced official public holidays for Christians staff at ministries and official departments, public institutions, public universities, municipalities, service councils and government-owned companies on Palm Sunday and Easter. As per the aforementioned announcement, the sectorial public holiday dates will be April 28 as well as May 5-6, 2024. Jordan has often declared such Easter-related holidays in the past, based on a 2012 decision by cabinet that Palm Sunday and Easter be declared as official non-working public holidays for Christians at "ministries, government departments and public institutions".
Jordanian Declares April 28 and May 5-6 Public Holidays Source: Jordan News Agency Petra (Amman). Jordanian Prime Minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, has announced official public holidays for Christians staff at ministries and official departments, public institutions, public universities, municipalities, service councils and government-owned companies on Palm Sunday and Easter. As per the aforementioned announcement, the sectorial public holiday dates will be April 28 as well as May 5-6, 2024. Jordan has often declared such Easter-related holidays in the past, based on a 2012 decision by cabinet that Palm Sunday and Easter be declared as official non-working public holidays for Christians at "ministries, government departments and public institutions".
Costa Rica Bill Would Make Six Public Holidays Movable Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social de Costa Rica (San José). Costa Rica's Parliament is to consider a bill, introduced by the head of the ruling party faction, Pilar Cisneros, to make 6 of Costa Rica's annual public holidays movable again, moving them to the following Monday when they occurred on any other weekday. The creation of long weekend to promote tourism had been the crux of the Abel Pacheco's administration 2005 legislation, which specified that 4 public holidays would move from mid-week to the following Monday. But subsequent legislation was passed in 2007, 2009, and 2010 to remove all public holidays from the scope of the 2005 legislation, except for October 12. That last holiday was then replaced by a new annual public holiday on December 1st, to commemorate the Day of the Abolition of the Army. Thus, as 2019 ended, all of Costa Rica's public holidays had been made immovable again, as they had been before 2005. Then, in the summer of 2020, legislation was passed, making 5 of Costa Rica's public holidays movable until the end of 2024. And, once again, legislators chipped away at the 2020 expediente 21.941, adición de un transitorio al Artículo 148 de la Ley 2, Código de Trabajo, de 27 de agosto de 1943, para trasladar los feriados a los lunes, con el fin de promover la visita interna y el turismo durante los años 2020 al 2024, cancelling the October 12 public holiday and making the August 15 and then the July 25 public holidays fixed in late December and early January 2023-2024. The latest bill, proposed by Pilar Cisneros, would make 6 annual public holidays movable; April 11, July 25, August 2, August 15, August 31, and December 1. The following annual public holidays would be observed on their traditional date; January 1, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, May 1, September 15 and December 25.
Costa Rica Bill Would Make Six Public Holidays Movable Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social de Costa Rica (San José). Costa Rica's Parliament is to consider a bill, introduced by the head of the ruling party faction, Pilar Cisneros, to make 6 of Costa Rica's annual public holidays movable again, moving them to the following Monday when they occurred on any other weekday. The creation of long weekend to promote tourism had been the crux of the Abel Pacheco's administration 2005 legislation, which specified that 4 public holidays would move from mid-week to the following Monday. But subsequent legislation was passed in 2007, 2009, and 2010 to remove all public holidays from the scope of the 2005 legislation, except for October 12. That last holiday was then replaced by a new annual public holiday on December 1st, to commemorate the Day of the Abolition of the Army. Thus, as 2019 ended, all of Costa Rica's public holidays had been made immovable again, as they had been before 2005. Then, in the summer of 2020, legislation was passed, making 5 of Costa Rica's public holidays movable until the end of 2024. And, once again, legislators chipped away at the 2020 expediente 21.941, adición de un transitorio al Artículo 148 de la Ley 2, Código de Trabajo, de 27 de agosto de 1943, para trasladar los feriados a los lunes, con el fin de promover la visita interna y el turismo durante los años 2020 al 2024, cancelling the October 12 public holiday and making the August 15 and then the July 25 public holidays fixed in late December and early January 2023-2024. The latest bill, proposed by Pilar Cisneros, would make 6 annual public holidays movable; April 11, July 25, August 2, August 15, August 31, and December 1. The following annual public holidays would be observed on their traditional date; January 1, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, May 1, September 15 and December 25.
Liberia Declares April 23 By-Election Public Holiday Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia). The President of the Republic of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring tomorrow, Tuesday, April 23, 2024, as a public holiday "to be observed as a National Holiday only in Nimba County and Electoral District #1, Grand Gedeh County, which are to hold the By-Elections". The aforementioned proclamation directs "government offices, business houses, private and public institutions of learning and marketplaces in the affected locations to be closed on that day from six o’ clock ante meridian to six o’ clock post meridian".
Liberia Declares April 23 By-Election Public Holiday Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia). The President of the Republic of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring tomorrow, Tuesday, April 23, 2024, as a public holiday "to be observed as a National Holiday only in Nimba County and Electoral District #1, Grand Gedeh County, which are to hold the By-Elections". The aforementioned proclamation directs "government offices, business houses, private and public institutions of learning and marketplaces in the affected locations to be closed on that day from six o’ clock ante meridian to six o’ clock post meridian".
Nepal Declares April 23 Public Holiday for the Visit of the Emir of Qatar Source: Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu). Nepal's Government Spokesperson and Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, has announced that the Cabinet, at today's meeting, had decided to declare a public holiday tomorrow, April 23, 2024, on the date of the arrival in Nepal of the Emir of Qatar for a 2-day visit.
Nepal Declares April 23 Public Holiday for the Visit of the Emir of Qatar Source: Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu). Nepal's Government Spokesperson and Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, has announced that the Cabinet, at today's meeting, had decided to declare a public holiday tomorrow, April 23, 2024, on the date of the arrival in Nepal of the Emir of Qatar for a 2-day visit.
Lahore Declares April 23 Public Holiday Source: Associated Press Of Pakistan (Islamabad). The Government of the Pakistani Province of Punjab has announced the declaration of a public holiday in its capital, Lahore, on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, due to tomorrow's visit by the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi. As per the aforementioned announcement, "In view of the visit of foreign dignitaries and thereby to avoid the consequent inconvenience to the general public, the 23rd April, 2024 (Tuesday) is hereby declared as Local Holiday in Lahore District". Note that, yesterday, the Government of the Province of Sindh and the Karachi Commissioner similarly announced the a public holiday in Karachi on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, for the same reasons.
Lahore Declares April 23 Public Holiday Source: Associated Press Of Pakistan (Islamabad). The Government of the Pakistani Province of Punjab has announced the declaration of a public holiday in its capital, Lahore, on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, due to tomorrow's visit by the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi. As per the aforementioned announcement, "In view of the visit of foreign dignitaries and thereby to avoid the consequent inconvenience to the general public, the 23rd April, 2024 (Tuesday) is hereby declared as Local Holiday in Lahore District". Note that, yesterday, the Government of the Province of Sindh and the Karachi Commissioner similarly announced the a public holiday in Karachi on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, for the same reasons.
Ajdabiya Declares April 22-23 Public Holidays Source: Libyan News Agency (LANA). The Libyan Ajdabiya Security Directorate has declared public holidays for all public authorities on Monday and Tuesday, April 22 and 23, 2024, due to the expected arrival of a sand storm in eastern Libya, which may cause a lack of visibility and the possibility of forest fires on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
Ajdabiya Declares April 22-23 Public Holidays Source: Libyan News Agency (LANA). The Libyan Ajdabiya Security Directorate has declared public holidays for all public authorities on Monday and Tuesday, April 22 and 23, 2024, due to the expected arrival of a sand storm in eastern Libya, which may cause a lack of visibility and the possibility of forest fires on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
Manipur Declares April 22 Re-Poll Public Holiday Source: Government of Manipur (Imphal). The Government of India's state of Manipur has declared a paid public holiday for tomorrow Monday, April 22, 2024, due to yesterday's Notice No.123/RO/1-IMPC/RE-POLL/LSE/2024 issued by the Returning Officer of the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, declaring the poll held on April 19 at 11 polling stations to be void and requiring a re-vote on April 22. As per the aforementioned notice, the paid public holiday has been declared "for all public offices, educational institutions, autonomous bodies, etc. and a paid holiday for commercial/private undertakings in the state located within the 11 polling stations of the 1 Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constitutions where fresh polls are slated to take place". Recall that, earlier this month, the General Administration Department of the Government of India's state of Manipur had declared April 19 and 26, 2024, the dates of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Manipur as public holidays. Today's declaration of April 22, 2024, as a paid public holiday thus further amends the list of 2024 public holidays in Manipur as published in last December's vide notification No.LIB-101/1/2022-GAD-GAD.
Manipur Declares April 22 Re-Poll Public Holiday Source: Government of Manipur (Imphal). The Government of India's state of Manipur has declared a paid public holiday for tomorrow Monday, April 22, 2024, due to yesterday's Notice No.123/RO/1-IMPC/RE-POLL/LSE/2024 issued by the Returning Officer of the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, declaring the poll held on April 19 at 11 polling stations to be void and requiring a re-vote on April 22. As per the aforementioned notice, the paid public holiday has been declared "for all public offices, educational institutions, autonomous bodies, etc. and a paid holiday for commercial/private undertakings in the state located within the 11 polling stations of the 1 Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constitutions where fresh polls are slated to take place". Recall that, earlier this month, the General Administration Department of the Government of India's state of Manipur had declared April 19 and 26, 2024, the dates of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Manipur as public holidays. Today's declaration of April 22, 2024, as a paid public holiday thus further amends the list of 2024 public holidays in Manipur as published in last December's vide notification No.LIB-101/1/2022-GAD-GAD.
Mauritius Declares One-Off Bank Holiday April 22 Source: The Bank of Mauritius (Port-Louis). The Bank of Mauritius, Mauritius' Central Bank, has issued a communiqué announcing that tomorrow, Monday, April 22, 2024, would be a bank holiday in Mauritius on account of the current torrential rains ("The Public is hereby informed that, following the decision taken on Sunday 21 April 2024 by the National Crisis Committee pertaining to torrential rainfall, the Bank of Mauritius has declared Monday 22 April 2024 a bank holiday by virtue of Section 63 of the Banking Act"). Similar one-off bank holidays were declared last January on account of tropical cyclone Belal.
Mauritius Declares One-Off Bank Holiday April 22 Source: The Bank of Mauritius (Port-Louis). The Bank of Mauritius, Mauritius' Central Bank, has issued a communiqué announcing that tomorrow, Monday, April 22, 2024, would be a bank holiday in Mauritius on account of the current torrential rains ("The Public is hereby informed that, following the decision taken on Sunday 21 April 2024 by the National Crisis Committee pertaining to torrential rainfall, the Bank of Mauritius has declared Monday 22 April 2024 a bank holiday by virtue of Section 63 of the Banking Act"). Similar one-off bank holidays were declared last January on account of tropical cyclone Belal.
Karachi Declares April 23 Public Holiday Source: Associated Press Of Pakistan (Islamabad). The Government of the Pakistani Province of Sindh and Karachi Commissioner, Syed Hassan Naqvi, have announced the declaration of a public holiday in Karachi on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to "avoid inconvenience to the general public". The aforementioned announcement refers to next Tuesday's visit by the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi.
Karachi Declares April 23 Public Holiday Source: Associated Press Of Pakistan (Islamabad). The Government of the Pakistani Province of Sindh and Karachi Commissioner, Syed Hassan Naqvi, have announced the declaration of a public holiday in Karachi on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to "avoid inconvenience to the general public". The aforementioned announcement refers to next Tuesday's visit by the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi.
Taiwan Mulls Changing From Bridge Public Holidays To Day In Lieu Public Holidays Source: Taiwan Central Personnel Administration (Taipei). Following 2023 which saw 6 bridge public holidays compensated by 6 weekend working days, the list of 2024 bridge public holidays and compensatory Saturdays in Taiwan was limited to only one. But, this means that the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day fall on a Tuesday and Thursday, respectively in 2024. In that context, the Legislative Yuan (Taiwan's Parliament) has requested the General Office of Personnel to refer to the "British Bank Holiday system" and arrange national holidays on Mondays or Fridays, rather than use bridge public holidays and compensatory weekend work days. Note that, under the present system, there will only be one such change per year from 2024-2029, though there will be 6 again in 2030.
Taiwan Mulls Changing From Bridge Public Holidays To Day In Lieu Public Holidays Source: Taiwan Central Personnel Administration (Taipei). Following 2023 which saw 6 bridge public holidays compensated by 6 weekend working days, the list of 2024 bridge public holidays and compensatory Saturdays in Taiwan was limited to only one. But, this means that the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day fall on a Tuesday and Thursday, respectively in 2024. In that context, the Legislative Yuan (Taiwan's Parliament) has requested the General Office of Personnel to refer to the "British Bank Holiday system" and arrange national holidays on Mondays or Fridays, rather than use bridge public holidays and compensatory weekend work days. Note that, under the present system, there will only be one such change per year from 2024-2029, though there will be 6 again in 2030.
El Oro Public Holiday Moved From April 23 To April 22 Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). The Government of Ecuador has announced that the upcoming April 23 provincial anniversary public holiday in the Province of El Oro has been moved to Monday, April 22, 2024, to mark the province's 140th anniversary, "in compliance with the Fourth General Provision of the LOSEP, which determines that the days of civic remembrance of independence or creation of the provinces are mandatory holidays".
El Oro Public Holiday Moved From April 23 To April 22 Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). The Government of Ecuador has announced that the upcoming April 23 provincial anniversary public holiday in the Province of El Oro has been moved to Monday, April 22, 2024, to mark the province's 140th anniversary, "in compliance with the Fourth General Provision of the LOSEP, which determines that the days of civic remembrance of independence or creation of the provinces are mandatory holidays".
Guyana Gazettes 2024 Labour Day Public Holiday Source: Guyana Government Information Agency (GINA). Earlier today, the Government of Guyana published the Gazette Notification 96/2024/947 (Notification made under the Public Holidays Act CAP 19:07), signed by Guyana's Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, and declaring Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, as a public holiday in Guyana, on account of Labour Day("Pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 (1) Of The Public Holidays Act, Chapter 19:07, Of The Laws Of Guyana, Wednesday May 1, 2024 is hereby declared a public holiday").
Guyana Gazettes 2024 Labour Day Public Holiday Source: Guyana Government Information Agency (GINA). Earlier today, the Government of Guyana published the Gazette Notification 96/2024/947 (Notification made under the Public Holidays Act CAP 19:07), signed by Guyana's Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, and declaring Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, as a public holiday in Guyana, on account of Labour Day("Pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 (1) Of The Public Holidays Act, Chapter 19:07, Of The Laws Of Guyana, Wednesday May 1, 2024 is hereby declared a public holiday").
Iraqi Calls For Eid al-Ghadir Public Holiday Source: Al Sumaria News (Baghdad). The leader of the Shiite National Movement has called on the Iraqi parliament to declare Eid al-Ghadir an annual official public holiday in Iraq. As per the aforementioned statement, "At the behest of the Iraqi people and the moderate national majority in all its sects: the Iraqi House of Representatives must legislate a law making the eighteenth of Dhu al-Hijjah Eid al-Ghadir an official public holiday for all Iraqis, regardless of their affiliation or beliefs". Currently the Shiite Eid al-Ghadir is a public holiday in Iran only.
Iraqi Calls For Eid al-Ghadir Public Holiday Source: Al Sumaria News (Baghdad). The leader of the Shiite National Movement has called on the Iraqi parliament to declare Eid al-Ghadir an annual official public holiday in Iraq. As per the aforementioned statement, "At the behest of the Iraqi people and the moderate national majority in all its sects: the Iraqi House of Representatives must legislate a law making the eighteenth of Dhu al-Hijjah Eid al-Ghadir an official public holiday for all Iraqis, regardless of their affiliation or beliefs". Currently the Shiite Eid al-Ghadir is a public holiday in Iran only.
Paraíba Court Overturns Declaration Of Six Public Holidays Source: Ministério do Planejamento Orçamento e Gestão (Brasilia). The Full Court of Justice of the Brazilian State of Paraíba has declared unconstitutional sections of a municipal law in Itaporanga that created six religious holidays in the city, namely; Saint Peter (June 29), tribute to Monsignor José Sifrônio de Assis Filho (September 19), Our Lady of Conception Day (December 8), as well as the Easter-related holidays of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Corpus Christi. The legal suit had been filed by the Federation of Chambers of Store Managers of the State of Paraíba (FCDL/PB).
Paraíba Court Overturns Declaration Of Six Public Holidays Source: Ministério do Planejamento Orçamento e Gestão (Brasilia). The Full Court of Justice of the Brazilian State of Paraíba has declared unconstitutional sections of a municipal law in Itaporanga that created six religious holidays in the city, namely; Saint Peter (June 29), tribute to Monsignor José Sifrônio de Assis Filho (September 19), Our Lady of Conception Day (December 8), as well as the Easter-related holidays of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Corpus Christi. The legal suit had been filed by the Federation of Chambers of Store Managers of the State of Paraíba (FCDL/PB).
New Zealand Deputy PM: Matariki Public Holiday Here To Stay Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). New Zealand's deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs, Winston Raymond Peters has announced that as far as he's concerned, the Matariki public holiday is staying, despite his coalition partner the ACT having been against the declaration of an additional public holiday in midwinter, and Workplace Relations Minister, Brooke van Velden, currently reviewing the Holidays Act. Recall that the passage of the Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill in 2022 established a new annual public holiday in New Zealand for the Matariki Maori New Year.
New Zealand Deputy PM: Matariki Public Holiday Here To Stay Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). New Zealand's deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs, Winston Raymond Peters has announced that as far as he's concerned, the Matariki public holiday is staying, despite his coalition partner the ACT having been against the declaration of an additional public holiday in midwinter, and Workplace Relations Minister, Brooke van Velden, currently reviewing the Holidays Act. Recall that the passage of the Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill in 2022 established a new annual public holiday in New Zealand for the Matariki Maori New Year.
North Korea Media Renames Day of the Sun Public Holiday Source: The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). It would appear that the April 15th Day of the Sun public holiday celebrating the birthday of North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung, is slowly being renamed in all media channels. In the run up to last Monday's public holiday, the main North Korean state media outlets (Korean Central News Agency, Rodong Sinmun, Korean Central Television, and Korean Central Broadcasting Station) have been referring to that public holiday using the more generic April Holiday.
North Korea Media Renames Day of the Sun Public Holiday Source: The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). It would appear that the April 15th Day of the Sun public holiday celebrating the birthday of North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung, is slowly being renamed in all media channels. In the run up to last Monday's public holiday, the main North Korean state media outlets (Korean Central News Agency, Rodong Sinmun, Korean Central Television, and Korean Central Broadcasting Station) have been referring to that public holiday using the more generic April Holiday.
Brazil G20 Public Holidays November 18-19 Source: Ministério do Planejamento Orçamento e Gestão (Brasilia). The Rio de Janeiro City Council has approved the executive's proposal PL 2857/2024 which declares November 18 and 19, 2024, as municipal public holidays in the city of Rio de Janeiro, on account of the G20 Meeting being held on those dates. As per the president of the Rio de Janeiro City Council, Carlo Caiado, "This is a very important event, which places Rio as a global protagonist. The holiday is essential to ensure success. We managed to strike a balance with the productive sector, with dialogue, creating exceptions so as not to harm important sectors of the economy". The project now goes to final drafting before being sent for sanction or veto by Rio's Mayor, Eduardo Paes.
Brazil G20 Public Holidays November 18-19 Source: Ministério do Planejamento Orçamento e Gestão (Brasilia). The Rio de Janeiro City Council has approved the executive's proposal PL 2857/2024 which declares November 18 and 19, 2024, as municipal public holidays in the city of Rio de Janeiro, on account of the G20 Meeting being held on those dates. As per the president of the Rio de Janeiro City Council, Carlo Caiado, "This is a very important event, which places Rio as a global protagonist. The holiday is essential to ensure success. We managed to strike a balance with the productive sector, with dialogue, creating exceptions so as not to harm important sectors of the economy". The project now goes to final drafting before being sent for sanction or veto by Rio's Mayor, Eduardo Paes.
Colombia Confusion About Status Of Civic Day Holiday Source: Presidencia de la República (Bogota). Earlier today, Colombian President, Gustavo Petro, issued a decree establishing the Civic Day of Peace with Nature and specifying that, from now on, "the third Friday of the month of April of each year is considered a Non-Business day, for work purposes". In announcing the aforementioned decree, President Petro expounded that "Tomorrow, we want to decree a Civic Day in Colombia, so that people do not use electricity as much as possible, we can save energy that we need in the coming days, and above all so that people reduce, as much as possible, the consumption of drinking water in these large cities, not so that we do not drink water because we would die, but so that we drink it in a place other than where there is water stress". This decree, in effect declaring tomorrow a non-working day, has immediately been criticized as business days in Colombia are "those that run from Monday to Friday, except for certain holidays that are established by law" and as reiterated by the president of the National Federation of Merchants (Fenalco), Jaime Alberto Cabal, "The President of the Republic does not have the power to establish holidays. Holidays are provided for in Law 51 of 1983 and this law has not been modified so that April 19, 2024 becomes a holiday".
Colombia Confusion About Status Of Civic Day Holiday Source: Presidencia de la República (Bogota). Earlier today, Colombian President, Gustavo Petro, issued a decree establishing the Civic Day of Peace with Nature and specifying that, from now on, "the third Friday of the month of April of each year is considered a Non-Business day, for work purposes". In announcing the aforementioned decree, President Petro expounded that "Tomorrow, we want to decree a Civic Day in Colombia, so that people do not use electricity as much as possible, we can save energy that we need in the coming days, and above all so that people reduce, as much as possible, the consumption of drinking water in these large cities, not so that we do not drink water because we would die, but so that we drink it in a place other than where there is water stress". This decree, in effect declaring tomorrow a non-working day, has immediately been criticized as business days in Colombia are "those that run from Monday to Friday, except for certain holidays that are established by law" and as reiterated by the president of the National Federation of Merchants (Fenalco), Jaime Alberto Cabal, "The President of the Republic does not have the power to establish holidays. Holidays are provided for in Law 51 of 1983 and this law has not been modified so that April 19, 2024 becomes a holiday".
Egypt Announces Sinai Liberation Public Holiday For Private Sector Source: Egypt State Information Service (Cairo). Egyptian Minister of Labour, Hassan Shehata, has announced that the Egyptian private sector will observe a public holiday on Thursday, April 25, 2024, on the occasion of Sinai Liberation Day and that "if employers decide not to give that day off to employees, the employees should be paid twice their daily wages". Today's announcement follows on the heels of yesterday's declaration by Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, that Thursday, April 25, 2024, would be a paid public sector holiday to celebrate the anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day. Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government moves most mid-week public holidays to Thursday (except for Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Coptic Christmas). But, in the present case, this was not necessary, as April 25, 2024, falls on a Thursday.
Egypt Announces Sinai Liberation Public Holiday For Private Sector Source: Egypt State Information Service (Cairo). Egyptian Minister of Labour, Hassan Shehata, has announced that the Egyptian private sector will observe a public holiday on Thursday, April 25, 2024, on the occasion of Sinai Liberation Day and that "if employers decide not to give that day off to employees, the employees should be paid twice their daily wages". Today's announcement follows on the heels of yesterday's declaration by Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, that Thursday, April 25, 2024, would be a paid public sector holiday to celebrate the anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day. Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government moves most mid-week public holidays to Thursday (except for Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Coptic Christmas). But, in the present case, this was not necessary, as April 25, 2024, falls on a Thursday.
Kazakhstan Publishes May 2024 Public Holidays Extension Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has announced that it had finalized and approved last week's draft decree On the postponement of the day of rest in 2024 (О переносе дня отдыха в 2024 году) which proposed to declare Wednesday, May 8, 2024, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the May 7 Homeland Defender Day and the May 9 Victory Day public holidays, to be compensated by Saturday, May 4, 2024, being declared a regular working day (Перенести день отдыха с субботы 4 мая 2024 года на среду 8 мая 2024 года). Usually, the Government of Kazakhstan announces the list of one-off bridge public holidays and compensatory working Saturdays in December for the following year, but no such announcement was made in December 2023.
Kazakhstan Publishes May 2024 Public Holidays Extension Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has announced that it had finalized and approved last week's draft decree On the postponement of the day of rest in 2024 (О переносе дня отдыха в 2024 году) which proposed to declare Wednesday, May 8, 2024, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the May 7 Homeland Defender Day and the May 9 Victory Day public holidays, to be compensated by Saturday, May 4, 2024, being declared a regular working day (Перенести день отдыха с субботы 4 мая 2024 года на среду 8 мая 2024 года). Usually, the Government of Kazakhstan announces the list of one-off bridge public holidays and compensatory working Saturdays in December for the following year, but no such announcement was made in December 2023.
Macau 2025 Public Holidays Announced Source: Portal do Governo da RAEM da República Popular da China (Macau). The government of the Macau SAR has announced its annual full list of official non-working annual public holidays for the upcoming calendar year 2025 (二零二五年度公眾假期、公共行政工作人員獲豁免上班及補假日的日期表), which, once again, also contains the list of one-off public holidays for public servants in Macau for 2025 by the Chief Executive (行政長官批示公共行政工作人員獲准豁免上班日期) as well as per the General Rules for Macao Public Administration Staff (按《澳門公共行政工作人員通則》第七十九條第四款規定所訂定的公共行政工作人員補假日). In past years, the announcement of the full list of public holidays for the upcoming calendar year was preceded by the announcement of a list of one-off additional non-working public holidays ("Exemption from work granted to public employees by the Chief Executive" and Compensatory rest days for public employees set forth in No. 4 of Article 79 of the ETAPM). But since the 2022 announcement of 2023 public holidays in Macau, all annual lists of public holidays in Macau have been announced at once.
Macau 2025 Public Holidays Announced Source: Portal do Governo da RAEM da República Popular da China (Macau). The government of the Macau SAR has announced its annual full list of official non-working annual public holidays for the upcoming calendar year 2025 (二零二五年度公眾假期、公共行政工作人員獲豁免上班及補假日的日期表), which, once again, also contains the list of one-off public holidays for public servants in Macau for 2025 by the Chief Executive (行政長官批示公共行政工作人員獲准豁免上班日期) as well as per the General Rules for Macao Public Administration Staff (按《澳門公共行政工作人員通則》第七十九條第四款規定所訂定的公共行政工作人員補假日). In past years, the announcement of the full list of public holidays for the upcoming calendar year was preceded by the announcement of a list of one-off additional non-working public holidays ("Exemption from work granted to public employees by the Chief Executive" and Compensatory rest days for public employees set forth in No. 4 of Article 79 of the ETAPM). But since the 2022 announcement of 2023 public holidays in Macau, all annual lists of public holidays in Macau have been announced at once.
Trinidad and Tobago Renames August 1st Public Holiday Source: Trinidad and Tobago Government Portal (Port of Spain). At today’s Post Cabinet Media Briefing, hosted at Whitehall, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Keith Rowley, has announced that the annual Emancipation Day public holiday, observed on August 1st, since 1985, would be renamed as African Emancipation Day from this year onward. As per the aforementioned announcement, "The time has come for us to make it quite clear what Emancipation means, and who’s being emancipated and from what.".
Trinidad and Tobago Renames August 1st Public Holiday Source: Trinidad and Tobago Government Portal (Port of Spain). At today’s Post Cabinet Media Briefing, hosted at Whitehall, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Keith Rowley, has announced that the annual Emancipation Day public holiday, observed on August 1st, since 1985, would be renamed as African Emancipation Day from this year onward. As per the aforementioned announcement, "The time has come for us to make it quite clear what Emancipation means, and who’s being emancipated and from what.".
Ecuador Banks To Remain Open During Load Shedding Public Holidays Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). Ecuador's Superintendencia de Bancos has issued the Circular No. SB-IG-2024-0026 which instructs the private banking sector to guarantee the continuous provision of banking services on the upcoming load shedding public holidays of Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024. Earlier today, Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa Azín, declared Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024, as one-off non-working public holidays in Ecuador to ration electricity and upgrade the country's electrical installations.
Ecuador Banks To Remain Open During Load Shedding Public Holidays Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). Ecuador's Superintendencia de Bancos has issued the Circular No. SB-IG-2024-0026 which instructs the private banking sector to guarantee the continuous provision of banking services on the upcoming load shedding public holidays of Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024. Earlier today, Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa Azín, declared Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024, as one-off non-working public holidays in Ecuador to ration electricity and upgrade the country's electrical installations.
Ecuador Declares April 18-19 Load Shedding Public Holidays Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa Azín, has signed an Executive Decree declaring Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024, as one-off non-working public holidays in Ecuador to ration electricity and upgrade the country's electrical installations.
Ecuador Declares April 18-19 Load Shedding Public Holidays Source: Agencia de Noticias del Ecuador y Sudamérica (ANDES). Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa Azín, has signed an Executive Decree declaring Thursday and Friday, April 18-19, 2024, as one-off non-working public holidays in Ecuador to ration electricity and upgrade the country's electrical installations.
Egypt Maintains Sinai Liberation Public Sector Holiday On April 25 Source: Egypt State Information Service (Cairo). Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, has declared Thursday, April 25, 2024, as a paid public holiday for State Employees to celebrate the anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day. As per the aforementioned announcement, this decision applies to "ministries, governmental bodies, public authorities, municipalities, public enterprises, and public and private companies". Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government moves most mid-week public holidays to Thursday (except for Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Coptic Christmas). But, in the present case, this was not necessary, as April 25, 2024, falls on a Thursday.
Egypt Maintains Sinai Liberation Public Sector Holiday On April 25 Source: Egypt State Information Service (Cairo). Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, has declared Thursday, April 25, 2024, as a paid public holiday for State Employees to celebrate the anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day. As per the aforementioned announcement, this decision applies to "ministries, governmental bodies, public authorities, municipalities, public enterprises, and public and private companies". Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government moves most mid-week public holidays to Thursday (except for Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Coptic Christmas). But, in the present case, this was not necessary, as April 25, 2024, falls on a Thursday.
Kyrgyzstan Reveals Changes To Public Holidays Legislation Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of Kyrgyzstan has announced the details of the changes to the annual public holidays in Kyrgyzstan, as they were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, late last week. The salient points of the aforementioned draft changes are the abolition of the practice of declaring bridge public holiday compensated by working Saturdays, an annual 7-day period of public holidays in January and an 8-day period of public holidays in May, and the cancellation of 4 annual public holidays dates (whose status changes to holidays but working days). These draft changes will now be submitted to the Parliament and, if approved, to the President of Kyrgyzstan for ratification.
Kyrgyzstan Reveals Changes To Public Holidays Legislation Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of Kyrgyzstan has announced the details of the changes to the annual public holidays in Kyrgyzstan, as they were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, late last week. The salient points of the aforementioned draft changes are the abolition of the practice of declaring bridge public holiday compensated by working Saturdays, an annual 7-day period of public holidays in January and an 8-day period of public holidays in May, and the cancellation of 4 annual public holidays dates (whose status changes to holidays but working days). These draft changes will now be submitted to the Parliament and, if approved, to the President of Kyrgyzstan for ratification.
Uruguay Orientales Public Holiday Moved To April 22 Source: Presidencia de la República (República Oriental del Uruguay). The upcoming Landing of the Thirty-Three Orientals public holiday of Uruguay will be moved from Friday, April 19, to Monday, April 22, 2024, as per Law 16,805, enacted on December 24, 1996 ("Holidays declared by law, without prejudice to the commemoration of they will follow the following regime: A) If they coincide on Saturday, Sunday or Monday, they will be observed in those days. B) If they occur on Tuesday or Wednesday, they will be observed on the immediate Monday previous.) If they occur on Thursday or Friday, they will be observed on the immediate Monday following."), and its modification, Law 17,414 of November 8, 2001, which permanently froze the dates of the observance of the June 19 and November 2 public holidays, leaving only 3 movable public holidays in Uruguay: April 19 (Desembarco de los 33 Orientales), May 18 (Batalla de las Piedras), and October 12 (Descubrimiento de América).
Uruguay Orientales Public Holiday Moved To April 22 Source: Presidencia de la República (República Oriental del Uruguay). The upcoming Landing of the Thirty-Three Orientals public holiday of Uruguay will be moved from Friday, April 19, to Monday, April 22, 2024, as per Law 16,805, enacted on December 24, 1996 ("Holidays declared by law, without prejudice to the commemoration of they will follow the following regime: A) If they coincide on Saturday, Sunday or Monday, they will be observed in those days. B) If they occur on Tuesday or Wednesday, they will be observed on the immediate Monday previous.) If they occur on Thursday or Friday, they will be observed on the immediate Monday following."), and its modification, Law 17,414 of November 8, 2001, which permanently froze the dates of the observance of the June 19 and November 2 public holidays, leaving only 3 movable public holidays in Uruguay: April 19 (Desembarco de los 33 Orientales), May 18 (Batalla de las Piedras), and October 12 (Descubrimiento de América).
Armenian Yazidi Genocide Bill Passes Second Reading Source: Armenian News Agency (ARMENPRESS). The Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs of Armenia's Parliament has passed in its second reading the draft law on Making Addendum to the Law on Holidays and Memorial Days of the Republic of Armenia which would amend the Law on RA Holidays and Memorial Days with the inclusion of August 3 as the date to commemorate the 2014 Sinjar Yazidi genocide by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
Armenian Yazidi Genocide Bill Passes Second Reading Source: Armenian News Agency (ARMENPRESS). The Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs of Armenia's Parliament has passed in its second reading the draft law on Making Addendum to the Law on Holidays and Memorial Days of the Republic of Armenia which would amend the Law on RA Holidays and Memorial Days with the inclusion of August 3 as the date to commemorate the 2014 Sinjar Yazidi genocide by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
Kyrgyzstan May 2024 Additional Public Holidays Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of Kyrgyzstan has reminded the population of the additional days off and public holidays for May 2024. As per the December 26, 2023, resolution (для рационального использования выходных и нерабочих праздничных) signed by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Zhaparov, in addition to the annual public holidays on May 1st, May 5 and May 9, the expected non-working days of Monday, May 6, and Saturday, May 11, will be regular working days so that Thursday and Friday, May 2-3, 2024, can be declared as bridge public holidays.
Kyrgyzstan May 2024 Additional Public Holidays Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of Kyrgyzstan has reminded the population of the additional days off and public holidays for May 2024. As per the December 26, 2023, resolution (для рационального использования выходных и нерабочих праздничных) signed by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Zhaparov, in addition to the annual public holidays on May 1st, May 5 and May 9, the expected non-working days of Monday, May 6, and Saturday, May 11, will be regular working days so that Thursday and Friday, May 2-3, 2024, can be declared as bridge public holidays.
Macedonia Declares April 24 and May 8 Electoral Public Holidays Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Policy of the Republic of Macedonia (Skopje). Macedonia's Ministry of Labour and Social Policy has announced that the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia has decided that Wednesday, April 24, and Wednesday, May 8, 2024, would be non-working public holidays for "all citizens of the territory of the Republic of North Macedonia" on account of the upcoming elections for the President of the Republic of North Macedonia and the elections for deputies in the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia, respectively.
Macedonia Declares April 24 and May 8 Electoral Public Holidays Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Policy of the Republic of Macedonia (Skopje). Macedonia's Ministry of Labour and Social Policy has announced that the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia has decided that Wednesday, April 24, and Wednesday, May 8, 2024, would be non-working public holidays for "all citizens of the territory of the Republic of North Macedonia" on account of the upcoming elections for the President of the Republic of North Macedonia and the elections for deputies in the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia, respectively.
Timor Leste Could Declare September Papal Visit Public Holiday Source: Press Release Government Of Timor-Leste (Dili). The government of Timor Leste has announced the dates of the visit of Pope Francis to Timor Leste, as Monday to Wednesday, September 9-11, 2024 (Visita Apostólica de Sua Santidade, o Papa Francisco, a Timor-Leste). We expect that at least one of these 3 days will be declared a public holiday in Timor Leste.
Timor Leste Could Declare September Papal Visit Public Holiday Source: Press Release Government Of Timor-Leste (Dili). The government of Timor Leste has announced the dates of the visit of Pope Francis to Timor Leste, as Monday to Wednesday, September 9-11, 2024 (Visita Apostólica de Sua Santidade, o Papa Francisco, a Timor-Leste). We expect that at least one of these 3 days will be declared a public holiday in Timor Leste.
Armenian Bill To Commemorate Yazidi Genocide On August 3 Source: Armenian News Agency (ARMENPRESS). The Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs of Armenia's Parliament, Rustam Bakoyan, has announced that the committee has debated a draft law on Making Addendum to the Law on Holidays and Memorial Days of the Republic of Armenia which would amend the Law on RA Holidays and Memorial Days with the inclusion of August 3 as the date to commemorate the 2014 Sinjar Yazidi genocide by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. The Committee endorsed the draft law in its first reading.
Armenian Bill To Commemorate Yazidi Genocide On August 3 Source: Armenian News Agency (ARMENPRESS). The Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs of Armenia's Parliament, Rustam Bakoyan, has announced that the committee has debated a draft law on Making Addendum to the Law on Holidays and Memorial Days of the Republic of Armenia which would amend the Law on RA Holidays and Memorial Days with the inclusion of August 3 as the date to commemorate the 2014 Sinjar Yazidi genocide by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. The Committee endorsed the draft law in its first reading.
Indonesia Extends Eid Al-Fitr Public Sector Holidays With April 16-17 WFH Source: Situs Resmi Kementerian Koordinator Bidang Kesejahteraan Rakyat (Jakarta). Indonesia's Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (MoABR/PAN-RB), Abdullah Azwar Anas, has issued the Circular Letter of the Minister of PANRB No. 1 of 2024 declaring the implementation of official duties from home (work from home/WFH) for a maximum of 50 percent of state civil servants on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 16-17, 2024, "to strengthen the management of Eid backflow".
Indonesia Extends Eid Al-Fitr Public Sector Holidays With April 16-17 WFH Source: Situs Resmi Kementerian Koordinator Bidang Kesejahteraan Rakyat (Jakarta). Indonesia's Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (MoABR/PAN-RB), Abdullah Azwar Anas, has issued the Circular Letter of the Minister of PANRB No. 1 of 2024 declaring the implementation of official duties from home (work from home/WFH) for a maximum of 50 percent of state civil servants on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 16-17, 2024, "to strengthen the management of Eid backflow".
Jordan Moves 2024 Labor Day Public Holiday Source: Jordan News Agency Petra (Amman). Jordanian Prime Minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, has issued an official statement announcing that the public holiday for the upcoming International Labor Day would be observed by all ministries, official departments, public institutions, universities, municipalities, joint service councils, the Greater Amman Municipality, and government-owned companies, on Thursday, May 2, rather than Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Some annual fixed-date Jordanian public holidays are often moved to adjoin a weekend, when they occur in mid-week.
Jordan Moves 2024 Labor Day Public Holiday Source: Jordan News Agency Petra (Amman). Jordanian Prime Minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, has issued an official statement announcing that the public holiday for the upcoming International Labor Day would be observed by all ministries, official departments, public institutions, universities, municipalities, joint service councils, the Greater Amman Municipality, and government-owned companies, on Thursday, May 2, rather than Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Some annual fixed-date Jordanian public holidays are often moved to adjoin a weekend, when they occur in mid-week.
Gandaki Province Declares April 16 Public Holiday Source: The Office of the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province (Kaski). The Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers of Nepal's Gandaki Province has declared a regional public holiday on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, to mark of Chaitra Shukla Ashtami (also known as Chaite Dasain). As per the notice published in the provincial gazette, all government offices, educational institutions, and public institutions throughout the province will remain closed on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. Recall that in early March 2023, the Nepalese federal government cabinet decided that provincial governments could add up to six public holidays a year to the national list of Nepalese public holidays released by the federal government, with the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs deciding the regional public holidays to be observed in the Kathmandu valley.
Gandaki Province Declares April 16 Public Holiday Source: The Office of the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province (Kaski). The Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers of Nepal's Gandaki Province has declared a regional public holiday on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, to mark of Chaitra Shukla Ashtami (also known as Chaite Dasain). As per the notice published in the provincial gazette, all government offices, educational institutions, and public institutions throughout the province will remain closed on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. Recall that in early March 2023, the Nepalese federal government cabinet decided that provincial governments could add up to six public holidays a year to the national list of Nepalese public holidays released by the federal government, with the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs deciding the regional public holidays to be observed in the Kathmandu valley.
New Zealand 2025 Public Holidays Announced Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). The New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has released the list of non-working public holidays in New Zealand for the calendar year 2025. The previous list of New Zealand 2023-2024 public holidays had been released almost 3 years ago, but it was amended in 2022, following the passage of the Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill which established a new annual public holiday in New Zealand for the Matariki Maori New Year.
New Zealand 2025 Public Holidays Announced Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). The New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has released the list of non-working public holidays in New Zealand for the calendar year 2025. The previous list of New Zealand 2023-2024 public holidays had been released almost 3 years ago, but it was amended in 2022, following the passage of the Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill which established a new annual public holiday in New Zealand for the Matariki Maori New Year.
UAE Media Claim Declaration of June 16-19 Eid Al Adha Public Holidays Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM). Over the weekend, many UAE online sites have carried a story claiming that "The UAE Cabinet has already approved a four-day public holiday from June 16 to June 19 to mark Arafa Day and Eid Al Adha, collectively known as the Feast of Sacrifice", which differs from our forecast that the upcoming Arafat Day would occur on Saturday, June 15, and Eid Al Adha from June 16-18, 2024. Currently, the only official announcement is that of last January announcing a 1-day public holiday on Arafah Day (Dhul Hijjah 9, 1445 H) and 3-day public holidays for Eid Al Adha (Dhul Hijjah 10-12, 1445 H). These media reports all quote the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, stating "that astronomical calculations indicate that Eid Al Adha will likely fall on June 17 preceded by Arafa Day on June 16". This is correct astronomically, as the new Moon will be less than 4 hours at the time of moonset on June 6, making its sighting almost impossible. However, until now, the UAE has always followed Saudi Arabia's declaration of the beginning of the Hijri months and while the beginning of each Muslim month in Saudi Arabia is supposed to be based on human sightings, in practice these sightings follow the calculated Umm al-Qura Islamic calendar, which only require the new Moon to be 5 minutes old at the time of moonset on the 29th day of the month.
UAE Media Claim Declaration of June 16-19 Eid Al Adha Public Holidays Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM). Over the weekend, many UAE online sites have carried a story claiming that "The UAE Cabinet has already approved a four-day public holiday from June 16 to June 19 to mark Arafa Day and Eid Al Adha, collectively known as the Feast of Sacrifice", which differs from our forecast that the upcoming Arafat Day would occur on Saturday, June 15, and Eid Al Adha from June 16-18, 2024. Currently, the only official announcement is that of last January announcing a 1-day public holiday on Arafah Day (Dhul Hijjah 9, 1445 H) and 3-day public holidays for Eid Al Adha (Dhul Hijjah 10-12, 1445 H). These media reports all quote the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, stating "that astronomical calculations indicate that Eid Al Adha will likely fall on June 17 preceded by Arafa Day on June 16". This is correct astronomically, as the new Moon will be less than 4 hours at the time of moonset on June 6, making its sighting almost impossible. However, until now, the UAE has always followed Saudi Arabia's declaration of the beginning of the Hijri months and while the beginning of each Muslim month in Saudi Arabia is supposed to be based on human sightings, in practice these sightings follow the calculated Umm al-Qura Islamic calendar, which only require the new Moon to be 5 minutes old at the time of moonset on the 29th day of the month.
Dominican Republic's Democratic Option Proposes Friday-Saturday-Sunday Public Holidays Source: Ministerio de Trabajo República Dominicana (Santo Domingo). The Dominican Republic's Democratic Option (OD) party has submitted to the Central Electoral Board its government plan for the years 2024-2028. This plan proposes to progressively reduce the working week in the Dominican Republi until it reaches 32 hours. As per the submitted plan, it is the OD's intention to "establish a policy to progressively reduce the working day to four days in a staggered manner by sectors, with a maximum of 32 hours per week, from Monday to Thursday and convert Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays into holidays".
Dominican Republic's Democratic Option Proposes Friday-Saturday-Sunday Public Holidays Source: Ministerio de Trabajo República Dominicana (Santo Domingo). The Dominican Republic's Democratic Option (OD) party has submitted to the Central Electoral Board its government plan for the years 2024-2028. This plan proposes to progressively reduce the working week in the Dominican Republi until it reaches 32 hours. As per the submitted plan, it is the OD's intention to "establish a policy to progressively reduce the working day to four days in a staggered manner by sectors, with a maximum of 32 hours per week, from Monday to Thursday and convert Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays into holidays".
Madhes Province Declares April 14 Judsheetal Public Holiday Source: The Government of Madhes Province (Godar). The Government of Nepal's Madhes Province has declared a public holiday on Sunday, April 14, 2024, to mark the Judsheetal festival, being observed in Tarai-Madhes and the Mithila region. Recall that in early March 2023, the Nepalese federal government cabinet decided that provincial governments could add up to six public holidays a year to the national list of Nepalese public holidays released by the federal government, with the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs deciding the regional public holidays to be observed in the Kathmandu valley.
Madhes Province Declares April 14 Judsheetal Public Holiday Source: The Government of Madhes Province (Godar). The Government of Nepal's Madhes Province has declared a public holiday on Sunday, April 14, 2024, to mark the Judsheetal festival, being observed in Tarai-Madhes and the Mithila region. Recall that in early March 2023, the Nepalese federal government cabinet decided that provincial governments could add up to six public holidays a year to the national list of Nepalese public holidays released by the federal government, with the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs deciding the regional public holidays to be observed in the Kathmandu valley.
Taiwan Unlikely To Extend May 1st Public Holiday In Time For 2024 Source: Taiwan Central Personnel Administration (Taipei). Taiwanese Government departments are discussing the possibility of extending the scope of the May 1st public holiday, and also consulting representatives of various social groups for their feedback, but officials have expressed doubts as to whether Taiwan will declare May 1st, 2024, as a national public holiday. Currently, May 1st is observed as the Labor Day public holiday, but only by the private sector. Early last month, Taiwanese Premier, Chen Chien-jen, had announced that she was open to making Labor Day a public holiday that is uniformly observed nationwide, but that some compensatory adjustment would be needed and the proposal has received support from the All-China Federation of Teachers Unions and legislators from both the ruling and opposition parties, although Taiwan's Interior Minister Lin Yu-chang remarked that currently, the total number of national holidays in Taiwan is fixed and regulated by legislative resolution.
Taiwan Unlikely To Extend May 1st Public Holiday In Time For 2024 Source: Taiwan Central Personnel Administration (Taipei). Taiwanese Government departments are discussing the possibility of extending the scope of the May 1st public holiday, and also consulting representatives of various social groups for their feedback, but officials have expressed doubts as to whether Taiwan will declare May 1st, 2024, as a national public holiday. Currently, May 1st is observed as the Labor Day public holiday, but only by the private sector. Early last month, Taiwanese Premier, Chen Chien-jen, had announced that she was open to making Labor Day a public holiday that is uniformly observed nationwide, but that some compensatory adjustment would be needed and the proposal has received support from the All-China Federation of Teachers Unions and legislators from both the ruling and opposition parties, although Taiwan's Interior Minister Lin Yu-chang remarked that currently, the total number of national holidays in Taiwan is fixed and regulated by legislative resolution.
Bolivia Confirms Rules For Day In Lieu Public Holidays Source: Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Previsión Social (La Paz). Bolivia's Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security has re-iterated that, according the the Ley General del Trabajo (Labour Code of Bolivia), if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, then it is extended to the following Monday. But, the Ministry emphasized that, because Saturdays are considered working days, public holidays falling on a Saturday are maintained and are not extended.
Bolivia Confirms Rules For Day In Lieu Public Holidays Source: Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Previsión Social (La Paz). Bolivia's Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security has re-iterated that, according the the Ley General del Trabajo (Labour Code of Bolivia), if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, then it is extended to the following Monday. But, the Ministry emphasized that, because Saturdays are considered working days, public holidays falling on a Saturday are maintained and are not extended.
Chandigarh Extends Scope Of April 14 Ambedkar Jayanti Public Holiday Source: Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh). The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has extended the scope of the public holiday on Sunday, April 14, 2024, marking the anniversary of the birth of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. As per today's Home Department Notification No. 6/1/1-1H(I)-2024/4846, signed by the Home Secretary, Nitin Kumar Yadav, "In partial modification of this Administration's Notification No. 6/1/1-IH(I)-2023/17123-17130, dated 15.12.2023 regarding declaring of Public Holidays in the Union Territory of Chandigarh during the calendar year 2024, the 14th April, 2024 (Sunday) will now be observed as Public Holiday in all the Government Offices/ Boards/ Corporations/ Institutions including Industrial Establishments under the Chandigarh Administration on account of birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar".
Chandigarh Extends Scope Of April 14 Ambedkar Jayanti Public Holiday Source: Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh). The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has extended the scope of the public holiday on Sunday, April 14, 2024, marking the anniversary of the birth of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. As per today's Home Department Notification No. 6/1/1-1H(I)-2024/4846, signed by the Home Secretary, Nitin Kumar Yadav, "In partial modification of this Administration's Notification No. 6/1/1-IH(I)-2023/17123-17130, dated 15.12.2023 regarding declaring of Public Holidays in the Union Territory of Chandigarh during the calendar year 2024, the 14th April, 2024 (Sunday) will now be observed as Public Holiday in all the Government Offices/ Boards/ Corporations/ Institutions including Industrial Establishments under the Chandigarh Administration on account of birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar".
Honduras' Cohep Clarifies Status Of April 14 Public Holiday Source: El Heraldo (Tegucigalpa). The Legal Advisory officer of the Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (Cohep), Alejandra Banegas, has clarified the consequences of the upcoming Día de las Américas (Day of the Americas) public holiday falling on a Sunday. As per Officer Banegas'statement, "The national holiday of April 14, already established, falls on a Sunday and this is very particular, since the law instructs us that the holidays will be taken on the corresponding day", meaning that "for companies that work from Monday to Friday this holiday is lost". In the case of shops, restaurants and tourism venues that open on Sundays, then "the law stipulates double payment for the day being worked".
Honduras' Cohep Clarifies Status Of April 14 Public Holiday Source: El Heraldo (Tegucigalpa). The Legal Advisory officer of the Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (Cohep), Alejandra Banegas, has clarified the consequences of the upcoming Día de las Américas (Day of the Americas) public holiday falling on a Sunday. As per Officer Banegas'statement, "The national holiday of April 14, already established, falls on a Sunday and this is very particular, since the law instructs us that the holidays will be taken on the corresponding day", meaning that "for companies that work from Monday to Friday this holiday is lost". In the case of shops, restaurants and tourism venues that open on Sundays, then "the law stipulates double payment for the day being worked".
Kazakhstan Publishes May 2024 Public Holidays Extension Draft Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has published the draft decree On the postponement of the day of rest in 2024 (О переносе дня отдыха в 2024 году) which proposes to declare Wednesday, May 8, 2024, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the May 7 Homeland Defender Day and the May 9 Victory Day public holidays. As compensation, Saturday, May 4, 2024, would be declared a regular working day (Перенести день отдыха с субботы 4 мая 2024 года на среду 8 мая 2024 года). The aforementioned draft has been posted on the eGov website of the Government of Kazakhstan (Открытые НПА), for comments until April 25. Many initial comments are unfavorable; some due to the last-minute nature of the announcement, but many because Sunday, May 5, 2024, is Orthodox Easter Sunday. so, the bridge public holiday will probably be confirmed, but the compensatory working Saturday might be moved to another date, such as May 11. Usually, the Government of Kazakhstan announces the list of one-off bridge public holidays and compensatory working Saturdays in December for the following year, but no such announcement was made in December 2023, leading the media to keep pressing the press service of Kazakhstan's Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population who, earlier this month, stated that no decision had been made as to the possible transfer of one or more May 2024 workdays to a nearby Saturday.
Kazakhstan Publishes May 2024 Public Holidays Extension Draft Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has published the draft decree On the postponement of the day of rest in 2024 (О переносе дня отдыха в 2024 году) which proposes to declare Wednesday, May 8, 2024, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the May 7 Homeland Defender Day and the May 9 Victory Day public holidays. As compensation, Saturday, May 4, 2024, would be declared a regular working day (Перенести день отдыха с субботы 4 мая 2024 года на среду 8 мая 2024 года). The aforementioned draft has been posted on the eGov website of the Government of Kazakhstan (Открытые НПА), for comments until April 25. Many initial comments are unfavorable; some due to the last-minute nature of the announcement, but many because Sunday, May 5, 2024, is Orthodox Easter Sunday. so, the bridge public holiday will probably be confirmed, but the compensatory working Saturday might be moved to another date, such as May 11. Usually, the Government of Kazakhstan announces the list of one-off bridge public holidays and compensatory working Saturdays in December for the following year, but no such announcement was made in December 2023, leading the media to keep pressing the press service of Kazakhstan's Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population who, earlier this month, stated that no decision had been made as to the possible transfer of one or more May 2024 workdays to a nearby Saturday.
Kyrgyzstan Cabinet Approves Changes To Public Holidays Legislation Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan has approved changes to the Labor Code which overhaul the list of annual public holidays in Kyrgyzstan "with the aim of achieving a balance of interests of workers and employers, and due to the fact that the current Labor Code was adopted in 2004 and does not meet the realities of the time". Details of the aforementioned changes are expected in the next few days.
Kyrgyzstan Cabinet Approves Changes To Public Holidays Legislation Source: Ministry of Labor Employment and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic (Bishkek). The Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan has approved changes to the Labor Code which overhaul the list of annual public holidays in Kyrgyzstan "with the aim of achieving a balance of interests of workers and employers, and due to the fact that the current Labor Code was adopted in 2004 and does not meet the realities of the time". Details of the aforementioned changes are expected in the next few days.
Monaco Public Holiday May 9 Source: Bulletin Officiel de la Principauté (Monaco). Monaco's State Ministry has gazetted the Circulaire n° 2024‑3 du 4 avril 2024 relative au jeudi 9 mai 2024 (Jour de l'Ascension), jour férié légal, in today's Journal Officiel Numéro 8690, confirming that Thursday, May 9, 2024, would be a public holiday in Monaco for all employees ("Aux termes de la loi n° 798 du 18 février 1966 portant fixation des jours fériés légaux et de la loi n° 800 du 18 février 1966, modifiée, régissant la rémunération et les conditions de travail relatives aux jours fériés légaux, le jeudi 9 mai 2024 est un jour férié, chômé et payé pour l'ensemble des salariés quel que soit leur mode de rémunération"). The aforementioned circulaire supplements the previously-announced annual list of official non-working public holidays in Monaco and Monaco bank holidays for the calendar year 2024, as released last October.
Monaco Public Holiday May 9 Source: Bulletin Officiel de la Principauté (Monaco). Monaco's State Ministry has gazetted the Circulaire n° 2024‑3 du 4 avril 2024 relative au jeudi 9 mai 2024 (Jour de l'Ascension), jour férié légal, in today's Journal Officiel Numéro 8690, confirming that Thursday, May 9, 2024, would be a public holiday in Monaco for all employees ("Aux termes de la loi n° 798 du 18 février 1966 portant fixation des jours fériés légaux et de la loi n° 800 du 18 février 1966, modifiée, régissant la rémunération et les conditions de travail relatives aux jours fériés légaux, le jeudi 9 mai 2024 est un jour férié, chômé et payé pour l'ensemble des salariés quel que soit leur mode de rémunération"). The aforementioned circulaire supplements the previously-announced annual list of official non-working public holidays in Monaco and Monaco bank holidays for the calendar year 2024, as released last October.
Sri Lankan April 15 Bank Holiday Not Clear Source: Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs (Colombo). Earlier this week, Sri Lanka's Home Affairs State Minister, Ashoka Priyantha, announced that Monday, April 15, 2024, would be a one-off public holiday due to the overlap of the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays with the weekend, as well as the Hisa Thel Gama scheduled to take place on April 15. But the Home Affairs Ministry's gazette notification only mentioned a public holiday without specifying if April 15 would also be a banking and mercantile holiday. Contacted by the media on the question, the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs and Provincial Affair, Pradeep Yasarathne, responded that "we have declared a public holiday. It is up to the relevant institutions to decide".
Sri Lankan April 15 Bank Holiday Not Clear Source: Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs (Colombo). Earlier this week, Sri Lanka's Home Affairs State Minister, Ashoka Priyantha, announced that Monday, April 15, 2024, would be a one-off public holiday due to the overlap of the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays with the weekend, as well as the Hisa Thel Gama scheduled to take place on April 15. But the Home Affairs Ministry's gazette notification only mentioned a public holiday without specifying if April 15 would also be a banking and mercantile holiday. Contacted by the media on the question, the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs and Provincial Affair, Pradeep Yasarathne, responded that "we have declared a public holiday. It is up to the relevant institutions to decide".
Vietnam's PM Approves Extended April 27-May 1 Public Holidays Source: Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi). Vietnam's Government Office has issued the official dispatch No. 2450/VPCP-KGVX announcing that the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, had approved the proposal of the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) for the extension of the upcoming Liberation Day and Labour Day public holidays by declaring Monday, April 29, 2024, as a one-off bridge public holiday, to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, May 4, 2024, as a regular working day. MOLISA's official dispatch No. 1385/BLDTBXH-CATLD, issued at the beginning of the month, had been submitted to 15 agencies and ministries with 13 of these 15 ministries and branches having approved the proposal.
Vietnam's PM Approves Extended April 27-May 1 Public Holidays Source: Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi). Vietnam's Government Office has issued the official dispatch No. 2450/VPCP-KGVX announcing that the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, had approved the proposal of the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) for the extension of the upcoming Liberation Day and Labour Day public holidays by declaring Monday, April 29, 2024, as a one-off bridge public holiday, to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, May 4, 2024, as a regular working day. MOLISA's official dispatch No. 1385/BLDTBXH-CATLD, issued at the beginning of the month, had been submitted to 15 agencies and ministries with 13 of these 15 ministries and branches having approved the proposal.
Gabon Declares April 17 Public Holiday Source: Gouvernement de la République Gabonaise (Libreville). Gabon's ministre du Travail et de la lutte contre le chômage, Adrien Nguema Mba, has issued a communique declaring Wednesday, April 17, 2024, as a public holiday in the Gabon, on account of the upcoming journée nationale de la femme. The aforementioned communique states that "Mercredi 17 avril 2024, est déclarée fériée, chômée et récupérable sur toute l’étendue du territoire national" in line with the décret n° 00727/PR/MTEFP du 29 juin 1998, réglementant le régime des jours fériés en République gabonaise et modifié en son article 2 par le décret N° 000484/PR/MTE du 26 mai 2004.
Gabon Declares April 17 Public Holiday Source: Gouvernement de la République Gabonaise (Libreville). Gabon's ministre du Travail et de la lutte contre le chômage, Adrien Nguema Mba, has issued a communique declaring Wednesday, April 17, 2024, as a public holiday in the Gabon, on account of the upcoming journée nationale de la femme. The aforementioned communique states that "Mercredi 17 avril 2024, est déclarée fériée, chômée et récupérable sur toute l’étendue du territoire national" in line with the décret n° 00727/PR/MTEFP du 29 juin 1998, réglementant le régime des jours fériés en République gabonaise et modifié en son article 2 par le décret N° 000484/PR/MTE du 26 mai 2004.
Liberia Declares April 12 National Fast and Prayer Day Public Holiday Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia). The President of the Republic of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring Friday, April 12, 2024, as National Fast and Prayer Day, a public holiday to be observed throughout the Republic of Liberia. The National Fast and Prayer Day was set aside as an annual non-working public holiday by an Act of the National Legislature in 1883, "as a National Holiday for supplication, fasting and meditation to the Almighty God so that our efforts as people, may be crowned with great achievements to the common cause of the nation, the state and our common humanity", but such last-minute re-confirmation of annual public holidays are a staple of the Liberian public holidays calendar.
Liberia Declares April 12 National Fast and Prayer Day Public Holiday Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia). The President of the Republic of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring Friday, April 12, 2024, as National Fast and Prayer Day, a public holiday to be observed throughout the Republic of Liberia. The National Fast and Prayer Day was set aside as an annual non-working public holiday by an Act of the National Legislature in 1883, "as a National Holiday for supplication, fasting and meditation to the Almighty God so that our efforts as people, may be crowned with great achievements to the common cause of the nation, the state and our common humanity", but such last-minute re-confirmation of annual public holidays are a staple of the Liberian public holidays calendar.
New Zealand Members' Bill To Liberalize Easter Holidays Trading Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). New Zealand's Parliamentary ballot system, to choose around 50 Members' Bills every year, has brought to the fore the Repeal of Good Friday and Easter Sunday as Restricted Trading Days (Shop Trading and Sale of Alcohol) Amendment Bill of ACT MP Cameron Luxton. As per the Explanatory Note that prefaces the aforementioned bill, "This Bill seeks to remove an extra burden on businesses by removing the restriction on trading and selling alcohol on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.". Recall that the ACT (Association of Consumers and Taxpayers) is part of the current ruling Sixth National government coalition of New Zealand. In its pre-election manifesto, the ACT had pledged to cancel the annual January 2 public holiday to compensate the addition of the Matariki public holiday in 2022, but the removal of one of New Zealand's annual public holidays did not make it into the 3 parties' coalition agreement, although New Zealand's Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke van Velden, has recently reiterated that the current ruling coalition wanted to make changes to the Holiday Act. Although very few members’ bills become law, with most not passing the first reading stage, there have been notable exceptions. The 2013 Holidays (Full Recognition of Waitangi Day and Anzac Day) Amendment Bill which makes the Monday after weekend occurrence of Waitangi Day and Anzac Day a public holiday, had been drawn from the member's bill ballot and introduced to New Zealand's Parliament in February 2012.
New Zealand Members' Bill To Liberalize Easter Holidays Trading Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (Wellington). New Zealand's Parliamentary ballot system, to choose around 50 Members' Bills every year, has brought to the fore the Repeal of Good Friday and Easter Sunday as Restricted Trading Days (Shop Trading and Sale of Alcohol) Amendment Bill of ACT MP Cameron Luxton. As per the Explanatory Note that prefaces the aforementioned bill, "This Bill seeks to remove an extra burden on businesses by removing the restriction on trading and selling alcohol on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.". Recall that the ACT (Association of Consumers and Taxpayers) is part of the current ruling Sixth National government coalition of New Zealand. In its pre-election manifesto, the ACT had pledged to cancel the annual January 2 public holiday to compensate the addition of the Matariki public holiday in 2022, but the removal of one of New Zealand's annual public holidays did not make it into the 3 parties' coalition agreement, although New Zealand's Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke van Velden, has recently reiterated that the current ruling coalition wanted to make changes to the Holiday Act. Although very few members’ bills become law, with most not passing the first reading stage, there have been notable exceptions. The 2013 Holidays (Full Recognition of Waitangi Day and Anzac Day) Amendment Bill which makes the Monday after weekend occurrence of Waitangi Day and Anzac Day a public holiday, had been drawn from the member's bill ballot and introduced to New Zealand's Parliament in February 2012.
Vietnam Clarifies Possible Extension Of April-May Public Holidays Source: Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi). Vietnam's Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) has submitted to the Prime Minister its proposal of last week for the extension of the upcoming Liberation Day and Labour Day public holidays by declaring Monday, April 29, 2024, as a one-off bridge public holiday, to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, May 4, 2024, as a regular working day. MOLISA's official dispatch No. 1385/BLDTBXH-CATLD of last week had been submitted to 15 agencies and ministries with 13 of these 15 ministries and branches having approved the proposal.
Vietnam Clarifies Possible Extension Of April-May Public Holidays Source: Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi). Vietnam's Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) has submitted to the Prime Minister its proposal of last week for the extension of the upcoming Liberation Day and Labour Day public holidays by declaring Monday, April 29, 2024, as a one-off bridge public holiday, to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, May 4, 2024, as a regular working day. MOLISA's official dispatch No. 1385/BLDTBXH-CATLD of last week had been submitted to 15 agencies and ministries with 13 of these 15 ministries and branches having approved the proposal.
Afghanistan Extends Eid al-Fitr Public Holidays To 4 Days Source: Pajhwok Afghan News (Kabul). Following last night's announcement by the Supreme Court of the Taliban administration that April 9th had been the last day of the month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Taliban government of Afghanistan declared Saturday, April 13, 2024, as an additional public holiday to mark the Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan), in addition to the usual 3 days (April 10-12).
Afghanistan Extends Eid al-Fitr Public Holidays To 4 Days Source: Pajhwok Afghan News (Kabul). Following last night's announcement by the Supreme Court of the Taliban administration that April 9th had been the last day of the month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Taliban government of Afghanistan declared Saturday, April 13, 2024, as an additional public holiday to mark the Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan), in addition to the usual 3 days (April 10-12).
Bangladesh Eid-ul-Fitr April 11 Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS). Bangladesh's National Moon-Sighting Committee has announced that the Shawwal moon had not been sighted in Bangladesh, last night, and therefore that the Eid-ul-Fitr religious festivals marking the end of Ramadan would be celebrated in Bangladesh on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
Bangladesh Eid-ul-Fitr April 11 Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS). Bangladesh's National Moon-Sighting Committee has announced that the Shawwal moon had not been sighted in Bangladesh, last night, and therefore that the Eid-ul-Fitr religious festivals marking the end of Ramadan would be celebrated in Bangladesh on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
Chandigarh Declares April 11 Public Holiday For Id-ul-Fitr Source: Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh). The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has declared a public holiday on Thursday, April 11, 2024, on account of the upcoming Id-ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan). The aforementioned announcement, made under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881, is in line with the list of 2024 public holidays in India's Union Territory of Chandigarh as contained in last December's vide notification No.6/1/1-IH(I)-2023/17123.
Chandigarh Declares April 11 Public Holiday For Id-ul-Fitr Source: Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh). The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has declared a public holiday on Thursday, April 11, 2024, on account of the upcoming Id-ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan). The aforementioned announcement, made under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881, is in line with the list of 2024 public holidays in India's Union Territory of Chandigarh as contained in last December's vide notification No.6/1/1-IH(I)-2023/17123.
Chile Considers Extending October Elections Over 2 Days Source: Tramitación de proyectos (Congreso Nacional de Chile). The Chilean Government of Gabriel Boric has introduced legislation to have next October's municipal and regional elections occur on two days rather than on one day as has always been the case. According to the Minister Secretary General of the Presidency, Álvaro Elizalde, the proposition was presented via the Senate in order to give urgency to its processing. As per the executive's aforementioned proposal, the currently-scheduled election day of October 27 would remain irrenunciable, while the additional election day on Saturday, October 26, would be declared a regular public holiday. In Chile, the concept of a public holiday being irrenunciable (which the employee cannot renounce, presumably under pressure from his/her employer) is extremely important with many day laborers working on public holidays, unless these have been declared irrenunciable.
Chile Considers Extending October Elections Over 2 Days Source: Tramitación de proyectos (Congreso Nacional de Chile). The Chilean Government of Gabriel Boric has introduced legislation to have next October's municipal and regional elections occur on two days rather than on one day as has always been the case. According to the Minister Secretary General of the Presidency, Álvaro Elizalde, the proposition was presented via the Senate in order to give urgency to its processing. As per the executive's aforementioned proposal, the currently-scheduled election day of October 27 would remain irrenunciable, while the additional election day on Saturday, October 26, would be declared a regular public holiday. In Chile, the concept of a public holiday being irrenunciable (which the employee cannot renounce, presumably under pressure from his/her employer) is extremely important with many day laborers working on public holidays, unless these have been declared irrenunciable.
Costa Rica Confirms Battle of Rivas Public Holiday Change Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social de Costa Rica (San José). Costa Rica's Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) has issued a communique confirming that the upcoming Battle of Rivas/Juan Santamaria public holiday would be moved from its official date of April 11 to Monday, April 15, in 2024, as per the Law No. 9875 of 2020 which moved 2020-2024 mid-week public holidays to adjoin a nearby weekend. Initially, as per paragraph 185 of Law No. 9875 gazetted in La Gaceta number 175, in July 2020, three of the 2024 Costa Rican public holidays were meant to move to a nearby weekend. But, last December, Law 10396 was passed cancelling any move of the date of the August 15 Mother's Day annual public holiday. Then, in early January, Bill 23.559 was passed, moving back the Anexión de Nicoya public holiday from Monday, July 29, 2024, to Thursday, July 25, 2024.
Costa Rica Confirms Battle of Rivas Public Holiday Change Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social de Costa Rica (San José). Costa Rica's Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) has issued a communique confirming that the upcoming Battle of Rivas/Juan Santamaria public holiday would be moved from its official date of April 11 to Monday, April 15, in 2024, as per the Law No. 9875 of 2020 which moved 2020-2024 mid-week public holidays to adjoin a nearby weekend. Initially, as per paragraph 185 of Law No. 9875 gazetted in La Gaceta number 175, in July 2020, three of the 2024 Costa Rican public holidays were meant to move to a nearby weekend. But, last December, Law 10396 was passed cancelling any move of the date of the August 15 Mother's Day annual public holiday. Then, in early January, Bill 23.559 was passed, moving back the Anexión de Nicoya public holiday from Monday, July 29, 2024, to Thursday, July 25, 2024.
Kazakhstan To Add 8 Annual Holidays Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has announced on the Open Regulatory Acts portal that it plans to add 8 new annual professional holidays, namely; Workers' Day in the field of public services (April 7), Housing and Utilities Workers' Day (April 16), Metrology Worker's Day (May 20), Veterinarian's Day (10 July), Hunting Farm Worker's Day (the first Saturday of September), Day of Higher Education Workers of the Republic of Kazakhstan (October 1), Standardization Worker's Day (14 October), Anti-Corruption Service Day (November 18). As per the announcement, "Proposals for the introduction of new professional holidays were initiated by the authorized state bodies of the relevant spheres of activity".
Kazakhstan To Add 8 Annual Holidays Source: Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana). The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has announced on the Open Regulatory Acts portal that it plans to add 8 new annual professional holidays, namely; Workers' Day in the field of public services (April 7), Housing and Utilities Workers' Day (April 16), Metrology Worker's Day (May 20), Veterinarian's Day (10 July), Hunting Farm Worker's Day (the first Saturday of September), Day of Higher Education Workers of the Republic of Kazakhstan (October 1), Standardization Worker's Day (14 October), Anti-Corruption Service Day (November 18). As per the announcement, "Proposals for the introduction of new professional holidays were initiated by the authorized state bodies of the relevant spheres of activity".
Malaysia Confirms No April 12 Public Holiday Extension Source: Bernama News Agency (Putrajaya). The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has confirmed his announcement of late last month that there would be no extension to the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri public holidays to include Friday, April 12, 2024, as was done last year when additional public holidays were added on Friday and Monday, April 21 and 24, 2023.
Malaysia Confirms No April 12 Public Holiday Extension Source: Bernama News Agency (Putrajaya). The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has confirmed his announcement of late last month that there would be no extension to the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri public holidays to include Friday, April 12, 2024, as was done last year when additional public holidays were added on Friday and Monday, April 21 and 24, 2023.
Nepal Declares Public Holiday On April 11 For Eid-al-Fitr Source: Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu). The joint secretary of Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs, Rudra Prasad Pandit, has announced that the government of Nepal, on the recommendation of Nepal's Muslim Commission, had decided to extend the upcoming's Eid-ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan) holiday's observance from being limited to Muslims to a full public holiday. Recall that, in last February's list of official public holidays for the Nepalese year B.S. 2081 (mid-April 2024 to mid-April 2025), the 2024 Eid-ul-Fitr which was listed a a public holiday for Muslims only. This last-minute extension of the scope of Eid-ul-Fitr has happened often in the past, most recently in 2022, 2020, and 2019.
Nepal Declares Public Holiday On April 11 For Eid-al-Fitr Source: Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu). The joint secretary of Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs, Rudra Prasad Pandit, has announced that the government of Nepal, on the recommendation of Nepal's Muslim Commission, had decided to extend the upcoming's Eid-ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan) holiday's observance from being limited to Muslims to a full public holiday. Recall that, in last February's list of official public holidays for the Nepalese year B.S. 2081 (mid-April 2024 to mid-April 2025), the 2024 Eid-ul-Fitr which was listed a a public holiday for Muslims only. This last-minute extension of the scope of Eid-ul-Fitr has happened often in the past, most recently in 2022, 2020, and 2019.
Sri Lanka Declares Additional Public Holiday For Sinhala and Tamil New Year Source: Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs (Colombo). Sri Lanka's Home Affairs State Minister, Ashoka Priyantha, has announced that the Sri Lankan government had finally decided to declare Monday, April 15, 2024, as a one-off public holiday due to the overlap of the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays with the weekend, as well as the related and auspicious National Oil Anointing Ceremony (Hisa Thel Gama) scheduled to take place on April 15 at 10:17am. The declaration of one-off public holidays to adjoin the Sinhala and Tamil New Year annual public holidays, is quite frequent. In 2022, Monday and Tuesday, April 11 and 12, were declared as one-off as public holidays to link the weekend with the subsequent annual Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays. And, over the years, April 15 has often been declared a one-off public holiday in Sri Lanka. Most recently, this was the case in 2019, 2016, 2014, 2013, and 2011. While, in 2008, April 14 was declared a one-off public holiday as Sinhala and Tamil New Year fell on Sunday, April 13th, that year.
Sri Lanka Declares Additional Public Holiday For Sinhala and Tamil New Year Source: Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs (Colombo). Sri Lanka's Home Affairs State Minister, Ashoka Priyantha, has announced that the Sri Lankan government had finally decided to declare Monday, April 15, 2024, as a one-off public holiday due to the overlap of the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays with the weekend, as well as the related and auspicious National Oil Anointing Ceremony (Hisa Thel Gama) scheduled to take place on April 15 at 10:17am. The declaration of one-off public holidays to adjoin the Sinhala and Tamil New Year annual public holidays, is quite frequent. In 2022, Monday and Tuesday, April 11 and 12, were declared as one-off as public holidays to link the weekend with the subsequent annual Sinhala and Tamil New Year public holidays. And, over the years, April 15 has often been declared a one-off public holiday in Sri Lanka. Most recently, this was the case in 2019, 2016, 2014, 2013, and 2011. While, in 2008, April 14 was declared a one-off public holiday as Sinhala and Tamil New Year fell on Sunday, April 13th, that year.
Telangana Declares April 11-12 Eid-Ul-Fitr Public Holidays Source: Government of Telangana (Hyderabad). The Government of India's State of Telangana has announced that the state's official Moon sighting body, the Markazi Ruet e Hilal Committee, had not been able to observe the crescent of the Shawwal Moon last night. Therefore the public holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and the Following Day of Ramzan will be observed in Telangana on Thursday and Friday, April 11 and 12, 2024, in line with last December's vide notification G.O.Rt. No.1633, listing the 2024 public holidays in Telangana.
Telangana Declares April 11-12 Eid-Ul-Fitr Public Holidays Source: Government of Telangana (Hyderabad). The Government of India's State of Telangana has announced that the state's official Moon sighting body, the Markazi Ruet e Hilal Committee, had not been able to observe the crescent of the Shawwal Moon last night. Therefore the public holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and the Following Day of Ramzan will be observed in Telangana on Thursday and Friday, April 11 and 12, 2024, in line with last December's vide notification G.O.Rt. No.1633, listing the 2024 public holidays in Telangana.
Tripura Declares Declares Lok Sabha Public Holidays April 19 and 26 Source: Government of Tripura (Agartala). The Government of India's State of Tripura has issued the vide notification No.F.17(4)-GA(SA)/2019/307-26 which declares April 19 and 26, 2024, the dates of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Tripura as public holidays for "all Government Offices, Magisterial Courts, Financial Institutions and all other Establishments falling within the jurisdiction of 1-Tripura West Parliamentary Constituency along with 7-Ramnagar Assembly Constituency and 2-East Tripura (ST) Parliamentary Constituency shall remain closed on 19-04-2024 (Friday) and 26-04-2024 (Friday) respectively to enable the voters to exercise their right to franchise during the ensuing General Election to the Lok Sabha 2024 and Assembly Bye-Election 2024". The aforementioned notification, signed by Tripura's Deputy Secretary to the Government of Tripura, Asim Saha, goes on to state that "It will also be a paid holiday for all the employees of all industrial undertakings, all other Establishments of the Government Tripura coming under the purview of the Factories Act, 1948 and Daily Rated/Contingent Employees under the Government of Tripura and Workers/Employees in any business/trade in Tripura to exercise their right to franchise on the poll day Le. on 19-04-2024 (Friday) and 26-04-2024 (Friday) for 1-Tripura West Parliamentary Constituency along with 7-Ramnagar Assembly Constituency and for 2-East Tripura (ST) Parliamentary Constituency respectively". The declaration of April 19 and 26, 2024, as public holidays thus amends the list of 2024 public holidays in Tripura as set out in last autumn's Government vide Notification No.F.17(1)-GA(SA)/2023/8423-31.
Tripura Declares Declares Lok Sabha Public Holidays April 19 and 26 Source: Government of Tripura (Agartala). The Government of India's State of Tripura has issued the vide notification No.F.17(4)-GA(SA)/2019/307-26 which declares April 19 and 26, 2024, the dates of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Tripura as public holidays for "all Government Offices, Magisterial Courts, Financial Institutions and all other Establishments falling within the jurisdiction of 1-Tripura West Parliamentary Constituency along with 7-Ramnagar Assembly Constituency and 2-East Tripura (ST) Parliamentary Constituency shall remain closed on 19-04-2024 (Friday) and 26-04-2024 (Friday) respectively to enable the voters to exercise their right to franchise during the ensuing General Election to the Lok Sabha 2024 and Assembly Bye-Election 2024". The aforementioned notification, signed by Tripura's Deputy Secretary to the Government of Tripura, Asim Saha, goes on to state that "It will also be a paid holiday for all the employees of all industrial undertakings, all other Establishments of the Government Tripura coming under the purview of the Factories Act, 1948 and Daily Rated/Contingent Employees under the Government of Tripura and Workers/Employees in any business/trade in Tripura to exercise their right to franchise on the poll day Le. on 19-04-2024 (Friday) and 26-04-2024 (Friday) for 1-Tripura West Parliamentary Constituency along with 7-Ramnagar Assembly Constituency and for 2-East Tripura (ST) Parliamentary Constituency respectively". The declaration of April 19 and 26, 2024, as public holidays thus amends the list of 2024 public holidays in Tripura as set out in last autumn's Government vide Notification No.F.17(1)-GA(SA)/2023/8423-31.
