Ethiopia Flag
National Flag of Ethiopia
Ethiopia Flag Display
Quick Facts About Ethiopia and flag of Ethiopia
- Adopted:
- Aspect Ratio:
- 1:2
- Capital:
- Addis Ababa
- Population:
- Approximately 123 million (2023)
Ethiopia Flag - Description
The flag of Ethiopia features three horizontal bands of green, yellow, and red, with the national emblem (a blue circle with a yellow star and rays) in the center. The green represents the land and hope, the yellow symbolizes peace and harmony, the red represents the blood shed for independence, and the emblem represents the unity of Ethiopia's diverse peoples and the bright future of the nation.
Ethiopia Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
Green for land and hope; yellow for peace and harmony; red for sacrifice in struggle; the blue disk and golden star represent unity and equality of all ethnic and faith groups in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia Flag - History and Origins
The tricolour dates from 1897 under Menelik II after victory at Adwa; the emblem was reintroduced in 1996 and officially mandated in 2009 under a federal flag proclamation, with penalties for unauthorised use.
Ethiopia Flag - Design Elements
Three equally wide horizontal stripes with, at center, a blue disk and yellow pentagram with ray emanations. The emblem overlaps stripes; precise Pantone/CMYK values defined by proclamation.
Ethiopia Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
Flag law prohibits use without emblem for official display. Flown on government installations and national days (e.g. Victory Day in Adwa), raised at sunrise, lowered at sunset, half‑mast for mourning. Violations carry fines or imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Ethiopia Flag represent?
Green for land and hope; yellow for peace and harmony; red for sacrifice in struggle; the blue disk and golden star represent unity and equality of all ethnic and faith groups in Ethiopia.
When was the Ethiopia Flag adopted?
The Ethiopia flag was adopted on 31 October 1996 (original design 11 October 1897), marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.
What is the aspect ratio of the Ethiopia Flag?
The Ethiopia flag has an aspect ratio of 1:2, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.