Falkland Islands Flag
National Flag of Falkland Islands
Falkland Islands Flag Display

Quick Facts About Falkland Islands and Falkland Islands Flag
- Adopted:
- Aspect Ratio:
- 1:2
- Capital:
- Stanley
- Population:
- Approximately 3,662 (2021)
Flag Description
A blue British ensign featuring the Union Jack in the canton and the Falkland Islands’ coat of arms on the fly side.
Symbolism & Meaning of the 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.
Historical Background of the Falkland Islands Flag
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.
Design Elements of the Falkland Islands Flag
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.
Usage & Protocol of the Falkland Islands Flag
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Falkland Islands Flag represent?
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.
When was the Falkland Islands Flag adopted?
The Falkland Islands flag was adopted on 25 January 1999, marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.
What is the aspect ratio of the Falkland Islands Flag?
The Falkland Islands flag has an aspect ratio of 1:2, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.