Turkmenistan’s flag (24 January 1992; refined later) features a green field with a vertical red carpet‑gül stripe at the hoist, a white waxing crescent, and five stars. The carpet motifs represent major tribes; green and crescent denote Islam and heritage. Detailed laws fix a 2:3 ratio, gül sequence, stripe width, crescent/stellar geometry, colour references, and protocol; misuse is penalised.
Turkmenistan’s national flag is a heraldic synthesis of Islamic symbolism and the cultural artistry of Turkmen carpets. Officially introduced on 24 January 1992 and later refined, it displays a green field charged with a white waxing crescent and five five‑pointed stars near the fly side of a vertical red stripe at the hoist. The stripe carries traditional gül motifs corresponding to the principal Turkmen tribes.
Carpet Stripe and Gül Order The hoist stripe incorporates stacked carpet medallions (gül) associated with Teke, Yomut, Saryk, Chowdur, and Arsary lineages. Specification standards define the order, scale, and line work so licensed manufacturers can reproduce the stripe without drift. The stripe also includes crossed olive branches near its base, signalling neutrality and peace.
Field and Celestial Emblems The green field recalls historical banners; the white waxing crescent connotes renewal and the Islamic heritage of the people; five stars are commonly read as the five provinces (welayatlar) and, in broader tradition, guidance and aspiration. Government drawings locate the crescent and stars within a geometric grid to preserve placement across sizes and fabrics.
Proportion, Colour, and Protocol The ratio is typically 2:3. Pantone/CMYK specifications standardise the green, red, white, and accent colours used in textile and print. Protocol requires respectful handling, precedence rules with foreign flags, half‑masting by decree, and dignified retirement of worn flags. Desecration and incorrect commercial depictions attract penalties under law.
Continuity
and Representation Since independence, minor refinements have clarified motif outlines and stripe width to improve legibility at distance and on television. The banner is central to Neutrality Day and state ceremonies, and it identifies the country in international organisations and sport—where accuracy of the complex carpet stripe is ensured through official art files and supplier accreditation.