Syria Flag and Meaning
Flag of Syria
Syria Flag Meaning
The flag of Syria, officially adopted on March 1, 1980, consists of three horizontal stripes in red, white, and black, with two green stars in the white stripe. The flag is a tricolor banner that draws inspiration from the flag of the Arab Liberation and the Arab nationalist movement, representing Syria’s unity with other Arab nations. The red stripe at the top, the white stripe in the middle, and the black stripe at the bottom represent a progression of historical struggles, peace, and the aspirations of the Syrian people.
The two green stars in the white stripe represent the provinces of Syria: one star symbolizes the Syrian Arab Republic, while the other star symbolizes the larger Arab unity. The stars are intended to reflect Syria’s commitment to Arab solidarity and its desire for unity within the Arab world. The flag’s design is rich in symbolism, depicting Syria’s nationalist pride, its history, and its broader political ambitions within the Arab world.
Flag Dimensions and Proportions
The flag of Syria follows a 2:3 aspect ratio, meaning that the length of the flag is exactly twice its height. This is a standard ratio used for national flags, ensuring that the flag is balanced and easily recognizable in various sizes.
The flag is divided into three horizontal stripes of equal width. The red stripe occupies the top third of the flag, the white stripe takes up the middle third, and the black stripe is positioned at the bottom third. The two green stars are centrally placed in the white stripe, spaced evenly apart. The dimensions are proportional, with the stars slightly smaller than the width of the white stripe, ensuring that they are visible but do not dominate the overall design.
The flag’s proportions are designed to create symmetry and balance, emphasizing the unity of the nation and its connection to Arab nationalist movements, while also ensuring that the symbolism of each color and star is clearly represented.
Colors of the Flag
The colors of the Syrian flag—red, white, black, and green—are deeply symbolic and reflect different aspects of the nation’s identity, history, and aspirations. The flag’s colors are inspired by the pan-Arab flag, which is used by many Arab nations and represents unity among the Arab people.
Red
The red stripe at the top of the flag represents the blood that was shed during Syria’s struggle for independence and liberation from foreign powers, particularly during the period of French colonial rule in the early 20th century. The color red is a symbol of sacrifice and the dedication of the Syrian people to achieving national sovereignty.
Red also signifies the spirit of revolution and the pursuit of freedom. It reflects Syria’s long history of struggle, including the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire and the country’s eventual independence in 1946. The red stripe is a reminder of the country’s hard-won freedom and the continuing fight to maintain sovereignty.
Beyond its historical significance, red symbolizes the energy and vitality of the Syrian people, representing their resilience in the face of challenges. It also reflects Syria’s commitment to the Arab nationalist movement, with red being a traditional color in the pan-Arab flag.
White
The white stripe in the middle of the flag symbolizes peace, purity, and the aspirations for unity. White represents Syria’s hopes for peaceful coexistence both within its borders and in its relations with neighboring Arab nations. The white color also reflects the desire for harmony and understanding within a nation that is ethnically and religiously diverse.
The white stripe also signifies the new beginning for Syria as an independent nation, emerging from colonialism and seeking to build a peaceful, democratic future. The purity of the white stripe conveys a vision of peace and stability, aspirations that Syria has strived for since its independence.
In addition, white symbolizes the noble ideals of justice and equality, which the country seeks to embody in its governance and society. The two green stars, placed in the white stripe, further emphasize the importance of unity and cooperation among the people of Syria and the Arab world.
Black
The black stripe at the bottom of the flag represents the dark period of oppression and colonization that Syria endured, particularly under the Ottoman Empire and the French Mandate. Black is often associated with the struggles of nations fighting for freedom from colonial and imperial rule, and in the context of Syria, it reflects the painful history of foreign domination.
Black also represents the determination to overcome adversity and the strength of the Syrian people in rising above their past. It symbolizes the commitment to a brighter future, free from the shadows of colonialism and exploitation. The black stripe serves as a visual reminder of the nation’s history of suffering and the perseverance of its people in their quest for independence.
Additionally, black conveys the idea of resilience and the refusal to succumb to external pressures. It underscores Syria’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and dignity, no matter the challenges it faces.
Green
The green color of the two stars is a symbol of hope, prosperity, and the agricultural wealth of Syria. Green is traditionally associated with fertility, growth, and the natural environment. It reflects Syria’s rich agricultural history and its potential for future development. The green stars are a reminder of the country’s natural resources, including its fertile lands and the potential for economic growth.
Green also represents the aspirations of Syria’s leadership and people for a prosperous and united nation. The stars symbolize the country’s commitment to Arab unity, reflecting the desire for greater solidarity and cooperation among Arab nations. The color green is a symbol of the hope that Syria, along with other Arab countries, will continue to work together for mutual development and progress.
Symbols on the Flag
The Two Green Stars
The two green stars in the white stripe of the Syrian flag are the most important symbols on the flag. The stars represent the unity of the Syrian people and their connection to the broader Arab world. They reflect the country’s involvement in the Pan-Arab movement, which aims to unite all Arab nations under common goals of independence, solidarity, and mutual support.
The two stars symbolize the unity of the Syrian Arab Republic and the broader Arab nationalist cause. Each star is often interpreted as representing the two main historical regions of Syria: the Levant and Mesopotamia. These stars also reflect Syria’s role as a leader in the Arab world and the desire to promote regional cooperation and solidarity among Arab countries.
The stars are not just symbols of national identity but are also a representation of Syria’s historical role in the Arab world and its aspirations for a united and independent Arab nation.
Cultural and National Identity
The flag of Syria is a deeply important symbol of the country’s identity, values, and aspirations. It reflects Syria’s history of struggle for independence, its commitment to Arab unity, and its vision for a peaceful and prosperous future.
Historical Struggles for Independence
The red stripe on the flag represents the sacrifices made by the Syrian people during their fight for independence, particularly against foreign colonial powers. The country was under Ottoman rule for centuries, followed by French mandate rule after World War I. The bloodshed and struggles of the Syrian people during these periods are symbolized by the red color, which serves as a reminder of the country’s long fight for freedom.
The flag’s design also reflects the collective memory of Syria’s national liberation, highlighting the importance of sovereignty and self-determination in the country’s political culture. The unity and determination of the Syrian people are captured in the flag’s color scheme, with each stripe symbolizing a different phase in the country’s path toward independence.
Arab Unity and Nationalism
Syria has played a leading role in the Arab nationalist movement, which advocates for the political, economic, and cultural unity of Arab countries. The flag’s green stars reflect this Pan-Arabism, with the stars symbolizing Syria’s commitment to solidarity and cooperation within the Arab world. The stars are a reminder of Syria’s involvement in regional organizations like the Arab League and its continued support for the unity of Arab nations.
The flag’s colors and symbols also represent Syria’s position as a key player in the Arab world. The country’s involvement in regional politics and its efforts to address issues such as economic development, security, and conflict resolution are reflected in the symbolic meaning of the flag.
The Quest for Peace and Stability
The white stripe in the flag, representing peace and purity, underscores Syria’s desire for national reconciliation and stability. Following periods of internal strife and conflict, the country continues to face challenges related to its political and social cohesion. The flag’s white stripe symbolizes the hope for peace and the aspiration for unity within Syria, despite its divisions.
The country’s peace efforts extend beyond its borders, as Syria has long been involved in international diplomatic initiatives to promote regional stability. The flag’s design conveys Syria’s wish to resolve conflicts peacefully and to maintain cooperative relationships with neighboring countries.
National Pride and Sovereignty
For the Syrian people, the flag is a symbol of national pride and sovereignty. It is displayed prominently on government buildings, during national holidays, and at significant events, serving as a reminder of the country’s achievements and its ongoing efforts to secure peace, prosperity, and justice for its people.
The flag represents the strength and resilience of the Syrian people, who have faced numerous challenges throughout their history. It is a symbol of their determination to protect their sovereignty and to continue working toward a better future.
The Role of the Flag in Syrian Society
The Syrian flag plays an important role in unifying the country’s people, who belong to various ethnic, religious, and political backgrounds. The flag serves as a unifying symbol of national identity, reminding the people of Syria of their shared history, values, and aspirations. In a nation with a diverse population, the flag fosters a sense of collective belonging and pride.
The flag is also a symbol of the country’s political identity. The symbols on the flag, particularly the two stars and the national motto, reinforce Syria’s commitment to Arab unity, social justice, and peace. The flag’s colors and design reflect the national ambition to maintain independence and sovereignty, as well as to play a leadership role in the broader Arab world.
Syria Overview
Population | 17.0 million |
currency | Syrian Pounds |
Area | 185,180 km² |
Capital city | Damascus (Dimashq) |
Population density | 87.4 residents/km² |
HDI location | 111 |
To the west and out to the Mediterranean, the country is cut residents the north-south direction by the Lebanon mountains. The southern part of the country is flat and desert-like. To the north is a flat plain that extends down to the Euphrates River Valley (Al-Furat). The production of agricultural products – cereals, wine and fruits – is concentrated residents the western part of the country, which receives sufficient rainfall. To the south, the high plateau Djebel Druze of volcanic origin is also very fertile and is cultivated. The same is true of the oases that spread across the desert area, the most important being the capital of Damascus. Cotton production and breeding of sheep for the production of sheep wool are intended for export. Oil production is the largest industrial sector. The contamination with toxic substances that have been used residents the oil extraction has residents some places caused extensive water pollution.
The people: Are of Arab origin. residents the northern part of the country live Armenian, Kurdish and Turkish minorities. There are no more current estimates of the number of Palestinian refugees residents Syria, but residents 1977 the number was about 200,000. The Jewish people were allowed to leave the country residents 1992.
Religion: The population is predominantly Muslim, most of whom belong to the Sunni direction, followed by Alawites, Shiites and Ismailites. Furthermore, there are a number of Christian minorities belonging to different sects within Oriental Christianity.
Language: Arabic (official). The ethnic minorities speak their own languages.
Political parties: The ruling party is the Arab Socialist Baath Party, founded residents 1947 by Michel Aflaq. The party consists of the National Progressive Front as well as a number of smaller parties. The Sunni fundamentalist Muslim Brotherhood constitutes the armed political-religious opposition to the regime. Parties controlled by the regime: Syria’s Communist Party; the Socialist Arab Unity; The Socialist Unity Movement; the Arab Socialist Party; the Socialist Democratic Unionist Party.
Social organizations: The trade union Federation consists of 10 trade unions.
Official Name: Al-Jumhouriya al-Arabiya as Suriya
Administrative Division: 14 districts
Capital: Damascus (Dimashq), 1,669,000 (2007).
Other important cities: Aleppo (Halab), 2,319,800 residents; Homs (Hims), 698,800 residents; Latakia, 391,300 inb; Hamah 350,900 residents (2000).
Government: Bashar al-Assad has been President since July 2000, re-elected residents 2007 and 14. Wael Nader al-Halqi has been Prime Minister since August 2012. Parliament has one Chamber – the People’s Council – with 250 members.
National Day: April 17 (Independence Day, 1946). November 16 (Revolution Day, 1978). May 25 (Resistance and Freedom Day, 2000)
Armed Forces: 421,000 Soldiers (1996).
Paramilitary forces: 8,000 members of the Gendarmerie.