Pakistan’s flag (11 August 1947) has a dark‑green field with a white hoist stripe, a white crescent, and a five‑pointed star. Green represents Islam and the Muslim majority; the white stripe minorities and peace; the crescent progress; the star light and knowledge. Proportions are 2:3 with specified geometries and shades. Rules govern precedence, half‑masting, respectful handling, and dignified retirement.
Pakistan’s national flag synthesises Islamic heritage with constitutional inclusion, visually encoding the founding vision of 1947.
From League Emblem to National Banner The All‑India Muslim League popularised a green field with crescent and star as a political emblem. On 11 August 1947, the Constituent Assembly adopted a national flag designed by Amiruddin Kidwai that added a white hoist stripe to signify the rights and dignity of minorities in the new state.
Design
and Specifications The ratio is 2:3. The white hoist stripe occupies one‑quarter of the length; the remaining field is dark green. A white crescent opens toward the fly, with a five‑pointed star placed to its right. Government standards specify exact geometries and colour references for official manufacture.
Symbolism Green denotes Islam and the Muslim majority; the white stripe symbolises minorities and peace; the crescent progress; the star light, guidance, and knowledge. The composition preserves continuity with the League’s emblem while articulating a constitutional promise of inclusion.
Protocol
and Legal Protection Flag rules from 1947 onward regulate respectful handling, sunrise‑to‑sunset display, half‑masting in mourning, precedence over other flags, and dignified retirement. Desecration is penalised. The flag is flown at state buildings, schools, diplomatic missions, and on Pakistan Day (23 March), Independence Day (14 August), and Defence Day (6 September).
Continuity
and Public Life The design has remained stable since adoption. It anchors military, civic, and diplomatic ceremony and serves as a unifying device across Pakistan’s linguistic and regional diversity.