Freedom Day is observed in Belarus on March 25 each year. This unofficial holiday commemorates the establishment of the Belarusian People's Republic in 1918, during World War I when Belarus was occupied by German troops. The Republic was short-lived, ceasing to exist on January 5, 1919, when Minsk was captured by Bolshevik forces, leading to the formation of the Byelorussian SSR. Freedom Day is celebrated primarily by Belarusians who oppose the current government under President Alexander Lukashenko, and it often involves demonstrations against his presidency. Clashes between protestors and police have been reported, with notable protests occurring in 2006 when approximately 10,000 people took to the streets. Despite its significance to many Belarusians, the holiday is not officially recognized by the government.