Sunday 7 June 2015 saw the Belarus Flag celebrate its 20th anniversary.
In 1995, on a 64.7% turnout, voters in a referendum on state symbols opted by a 3:1 majority for the current design (hoist pattern slightly modified in 2012).
Belarus Flag (2012 to date)
Both designs bear a striking resemblance to the flag of the Byelorussian SSR.
Belarus Flag (1995-2012)
The only differences are the inverted colour scheme on the hoist ornament, and the removal of the hammer and sickle and red star.
Flag of the Byelorussian SSR, 1951–91
The intricate pattern on the hoist of all three flags dates from 1917.
Its designer, Matrena Markevich, took her inspiration from local plants and flowers.
The design also appears on woven garments like the Rushnyk.
Between 1991 and 1995 Belarus flew a simple white-red-white tricolour.
This was also the flag of Belarus on two previous occasions – West Belarus (1918–39), Nazi-occupied Belarus, (1942–44).
It is now flown by opponents of President Alexander Lukashenko (1994 to date).
Bonus fact: According to President Lukashenko, green represents life while red symbolises the freedom and the sacrifice of the nation’s forefathers.
Author: Alex Crouch (Flag Institute accredited journalist, 2015/16). Revised Flag Institute March 2026.
