Constitution Day is observed in Belarus every March 15, commemorating the adoption of the 1994 Constitution. This annual observance is not a non-working public holiday but serves as a significant commemorative day. The Constitution was signed by head of state Myechyslaw Hryb following a lengthy power struggle and debate after the dissolution of the USSR. Belarus has adopted five constitutions throughout its history, with the 1994 document being a pivotal moment in establishing the country as a presidential democracy and introducing the separation of powers. The Constitution consists of a preamble and 146 articles divided into nine sections and has been amended twice since its adoption, in 1996 and 2004.