Falkland Islands Flag

The blue field represents the surrounding South Atlantic Ocean and symbolizes the islands’ connection to maritime traditions and British heritage. The Union Jack reflects British sovereignty. The coat of arms features a ram, symbolizing the sheep farming industry, and the ship 'Desire' which represents the vessel of English explorer John Davis who is believed to have discovered the islands in 1592. The motto 'Desire the Right' emphasizes the values of self-determination and rightful governance.

The first official flag of the Falkland Islands, introduced in 1876, was a Blue Ensign defaced with the islands’ colonial seal, which depicted HMS Hebe and a bullock. In 1925, the badge was updated to include the ship Desire and a sea lion. A further redesign in 1948 replaced the badge with the current coat of arms, showing a ram and the Desire above a scroll bearing the motto. Initially displayed on a white disc, the design was changed in 1999 to remove the disc and enlarge the arms, creating the current flag layout.

The flag consists of a Blue Ensign background with the Union Jack in the upper hoist corner. On the fly side is the Falkland Islands coat of arms, which includes a ram standing on grass above a shield that depicts the ship Desire sailing on blue-and-white waves. Below the shield is a scroll with the territory’s motto. The flag uses a 1:2 proportion, and the coat of arms is presented in full color with no white disc behind it.

The flag is used by government institutions and is flown on public buildings, vessels, and during official ceremonies. A red ensign variant exists for use at sea by civil ships registered in the Falklands. The Governor of the Falkland Islands uses a Union Flag defaced with the territory’s coat of arms. The flag was banned during Argentina’s occupation of the islands in 1982 but was reinstated after British forces regained control. Flag protocols align with British overseas territory standards, emphasizing respectful display and proper use of ensign variants.