Greenland Flag

National Flag of Greenland

Greenland Flag Display

Greenland Flag - The national flag of Greenland, known as *Erfalasorput* (“our flag”), features a horizontally divided red-and-white design with a circle shifted slightly toward
Official flag of Greenland

Quick Facts About Greenland and flag of Greenland

Adopted:
Aspect Ratio:
2:3
Capital:
Nuuk
Population:
Approximately 56,000 (2023)

Greenland Flag - Description

The national flag of Greenland, known as *Erfalasorput* (“our flag”), features a horizontally divided red-and-white design with a circle shifted slightly toward the hoist. The circle is bisected horizontally into red (top) and white (bottom), mirroring the flag’s background in reverse.

Greenland Flag – Symbolism and Meaning

The flag’s red half-circle represents the sun setting over the horizon and the ice cap, while the white half-circle symbolizes the glacial ice and snow. The white stripe stands for the ice sheet, land, and rivers, while the red stripe denotes the ocean and coastal settlements. The design reflects Greenland’s natural landscape and Inuit cultural heritage, with the circle’s placement suggesting the balance of day and night in Arctic latitudes.

Greenland Flag - History and Origins

Prior to 1985, Greenland used the Danish flag exclusively. A local competition in the early 1980s led to the selection of the current flag design by Greenlandic artist Thue Christiansen. On 21 June 1985—Midsummer Day—the flag was officially adopted following approval by the Parliament of Greenland. The design was chosen to assert Greenlandic self-expression and identity within the Kingdom of Denmark, and it has since become a powerful symbol of cultural autonomy and respect for nature.

Greenland Flag - Design Elements

The flag is composed of two horizontal stripes of white (top) and red (bottom), bisected by a circle whose top half is red and bottom half white—creating a captivating yin-yang effect. The circle is slightly offset toward the hoist, giving a dynamic feel. Official proportions are 2:3. There are no additional emblems or mottos, emphasizing simplicity and symbolic power of landscape and light.

Greenland Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol

Greenland’s flag is flown on public buildings and ceremonial occasions, often alongside the Danish flag. It is raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset, with special prominence given on Greenland Day (21 June). Flag etiquette forbids letting the flag touch the ground or become damaged. Half-mast display is used to mark mourning and significant national events. While not covered by a separate flag law, customs are strictly observed in municipal and regional settings.

Learn more about Greenland Flag

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the colors of the Greenland Flag represent?

The flag’s red half-circle represents the sun setting over the horizon and the ice cap, while the white half-circle symbolizes the glacial ice and snow. The white stripe stands for the ice sheet, land, and rivers, while the red stripe denotes the ocean and coastal settlements. The design reflects Greenland’s natural landscape and Inuit cultural heritage, with the circle’s placement suggesting the balance of day and night in Arctic latitudes.

When was the Greenland Flag adopted?

The Greenland flag was adopted on 21 June 1985, marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.

What is the aspect ratio of the Greenland Flag?

The Greenland flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.