Laos Flag

The red bands symbolize the blood shed by Lao people on both sides of the Mekong River during the fight for independence under the Lao Issara and Pathet Lao movements. The wider blue stripe represents the Mekong River itself, reflecting national prosperity and the nation’s rich natural resources. The central white disc signifies peace, unity, and the bright future of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and is reminiscent of the full moon, symbolizing hope across divided communities.

Originally adopted by the Lao Issara anti-colonial movement on 12 October 1945 and briefly used before French restoration, the flag was re-adopted by the communist Pathet Lao regime on 2 December 1975 after the monarchy’s fall. Designed by intellectual Maha Sila Viravong, the flag replaced royalist elephant-based banners and became the enduring emblem of the Lao state, symbolizing national sovereignty, unity, and ideological transformation.

Three horizontal stripes with red top and bottom, blue center stripe double thickness. At the center of the blue is a white circle nearly matching its height (approx. 80 %). Colors are balanced for symmetry and visibility. No emblem or text—simplicity evokes clarity and symbolism. The flag’s ratio is 2:3.

While Laos lacks a separate flag law, traditional customs dictate the flag be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset, handled respectfully and replaced if damaged. It appears on national holidays and government buildings, including at diplomatic missions. Community norms discourage improper use such as clothing or casual defacement, as it is a revered national symbol.