The Memorial Day of the 1990 Dushanbe Riots is observed in Tajikistan on February 12. This day commemorates the deaths of 25 individuals who lost their lives during the anti-government riots that occurred in Dushanbe from February 12 to 14, 1990. The riots were sparked by tensions following the Sumgait pogrom and anti-Armenian riots in Azerbaijan in 1988, leading to protests against the alleged housing of Armenian refugees in the city. Demonstrators demanded significant economic and political changes, resulting in violence against Armenians, Russians, and other ethnic minorities. The situation escalated until Soviet troops were deployed to restore order, enforcing a curfew and allowing soldiers to fire on protesters. Memorial Day serves as a reminder of these tragic events in Tajikistan's history.