Among the various types of world flags, international flags represent an interesting development in flag history. Certain flags in the past have enveloped the concept of a unity for cause that extends beyond corporeal boundaries. This is the case of the flags used in the Crusade. The Crusaders and pilgrims to the Holy Land flew the Pope-blessed pallium or, more frequently, a gonfanon, during the time of the Holy Crusades. It was a symbol not of a single country but of a Christian Nation.
Today, this type of world flags has extended to embrace similar concepts involving unity of a cause or an idea. These international flags have in the past and continue in the present to provide a rallying point for those who follow or believe in what each flag represents.
Renowned International Flags
Throughout the 20th century, individuals have created and used specific flags to symbolize international causes. Among the most famous are:
- United Nations Flag: The United Nations made this flag their symbol in October 1945, following the end of World War II. The flag features the simplified map of the world – the symbol of the UN, flanked on two sides by two olive branches that rise from the bottom. The background is a pale blue. The flag symbolizes the global community and the efforts to create and sustain peace through joint effort and cooperation.
- The International Red Cross: One of the earliest of international flags, the Red Cross adapted the flag of Switzerland. They reversed the color scheme turning a red background with a white cross into a red cross on a white background. The flag appeared in 1863 and has since marked the efforts of Red Cross worldwide to provide help to those who need it in times of wear and other disasters. Variations do occur such as the Red Crescent instead of a white cross in Islamic countries and a Star of David in Israel.
Other Commonly Recognized International Flags
- NATO: Twenty-eight members comprise the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The flag dates from 1949 and features a simple white compass rose on a blue background.
- International Olympic Committee: The IOC flag features 5 different colored rings against a white background. The original version first appeared in 1920.
- European Union (EU) and Council of Europe: This flag with 12 golden (yellow) stars in a circle on an azure background first came into existence in 1955 but not adopted by the EEC until 1985. It symbolizes the entire EU
Among world flags, international flags hold a special position. They symbolize not an individual but a group effort to achieve some mutually held goal. They aim high and, although these organizations may often fall short of their goals, they strive hard to reach them as part of a community and not a solo effort.
