Strasbourg, 9 December 2022 (TDI): The Council of Europe (COE) celebrated the birthday of the European flag that was adopted 67 years ago by the Council. The flag has since become a symbol of union and shared political ideas, that unite all Europeans. This transcends beyond their diversities.
The flag became the emblem of the European Union (EU) in 1985 after it was adopted by the Council of Europe.
History of the European Flag
The history dates back to 9 December 1955 when the Council of Europe (COE) selected the present design for its own use. COE is an international organization that works to uphold human rights, democracy, and rule of law in Europe.
Later, COE encouraged other emerging institutions of the EU to adopt the same flag.
In 1983, it was decided by the European Parliament that the Communities’ flag would be the same as that of COE.
Also read: EU Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting 2022
Later in 1985, the flag was adopted as the official emblem of European Communities (later to become the EU) by the EU leaders.
Symbols and Elements of the flag
This flag symbolizes the EU and more broadly the identity of Europe. There are certain graphic elements in the flag. This includes the color of the flag, the circle of gold stars, and the number of stars.
The circle of gold stars represents unity, solidarity, and harmony among the people of Europe. The number of the stars in the flag is 12. this symbolizes the entirety and perfection. It is not related to the number of member states.
Along with this, there is the color blue of the background and the golden stars. The blue color is traditionally the color of the European continent.
The European flag satisfies the requirements of an ideal emblem. It is easy to interpret and recognize. It is a perfect emblem from a geometric, symbolic, and political point of view.
