The Canton Compass
Flag of the Falkland Islands

Flag of the Falkland Islands

Flag NameFlag of the Falkland Islands
Country NameFalkland Islands
ISO 3166-1 alpha-2FK
Date Adopted1999-01-25
Adoption Statusofficial
Flag Typenational
Aspect Ratio1:2
Primary ColorsBlue, Red, White, Green, Yellow, Brown
Symbolism DescriptionThe Union Flag in the canton signifies the Falkland Islands' status as a British Overseas Territory and its historical ties to the United Kingdom. The coat of arms in the fly symbolizes key aspects of the islands' history and economy: the sailing ship 'Desire' commemorates the discovery of the islands, and the ram represents the vital sheep farming industry. The tussock grass is characteristic of the islands' natural environment.
Symbolism Categorieshistory
DesignerCollege of Arms (for the ensign design principle)
Has Coat of Armstrue
Canton DetailsFeatures the Union Flag (Union Jack), consisting of the red cross of Saint George, the white saltire of Saint Andrew, and the red saltire of Saint Patrick.
Related FlagsFlag of the United Kingdom, Flags of other British Overseas Territories (e.g., Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, British Virgin Islands), Historical flags of the Falkland Islands
Legal DescriptionA blue ensign defaced with the coat of arms of the Falkland Islands in the fly.

Description

The flag of the Falkland Islands is a blue ensign, featuring the Union Flag in the canton and the coat of arms of the Falkland Islands in the fly. The coat of arms depicts a ram, representing the islands' sheep farming industry, standing on tussock grass, and the sailing ship 'Desire', believed to be the vessel of John Davis who discovered the islands in 1592. The motto 'Desire the Right' is displayed below the shield.

Related Flags