Civic Flag of Kurdistan

Today this flag is the preferred flag flown to represent Kurdish people wherever they exist. It appeared during the struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire and was introduced at the Paris Peace Conference of 1920 by the leaders of the Khoyboun, an organisation dedicated to Kurdish independence. In 1946 the shortlived Kurdish Republic of Mahabad proclaimed it as their flag, but this republic did not see the year out.

 Kurds have continued to use it as their symbol to inspire them in conflicts since that time. It is popularly known as the Sunny Flag. In northern Iraq, the Sunny Flag is flown by the Kurdish people in the region known as Kurdistan, and is widely favoured by Kurds throughout the world.

The Symbolic Meaning

The colours of the flag and representation of the sun emblem are routed deep within the history of antiquity. As a result their true meaning and symbolism may never be truly known.

It is thought the colours and the symbol of the sun with its 21 rays are related to the religious beliefs of the people, though in modern times the red is often said to represent the blood of the people.

Popularly known as the Sunny Flag, the name itself symbolises the Kurds’ determination and optimism.