Flag of Haiti

Design and components

The basic field is divided into two equal horizontal stripes. The top stripe is blue and the bottom stripe is red. The state and war flag add a centered white rectangle bearing the coat of arms, which features a palm tree topped by a Phrygian cap and flanked by flags, cannons, and other items that symbolize readiness to defend liberty. The civil flag and the commercial ensign commonly flown by private vessels omit the coat of arms and show only the bicolor field.

History and origins

The blue-and-red bicolor is traditionally linked to the Haitian Revolution. In 1803 a new banner was created by leaders of the independence movement who modified the French tricolour by removing the white stripe; this act has been recounted in Haitian tradition as a deliberate rejection of European domination. The design has been modified at times over the centuries, most notably replaced with a red-and-black vertical flag during the mid‑20th century Duvalier regime. After the fall of that regime, the blue-and-red arrangement with the coat of arms was restored.

Uses, variants and protocol

Different variants are used depending on context: a civil flag (bicolor alone) for civilians and private ships, a state flag (with coat of arms) for official buildings and government use, and specific standards or flags for certain branches of government. Protocol for display follows common international practice: the national flag is raised at public buildings, during ceremonies, and on national holidays; care is taken to keep the flag in good condition and to lower it respectfully at night unless illuminated.

Symbolism and notable facts

The two colors are commonly interpreted as expressing the unity of Haiti’s people after independence, and elements in the coat of arms recall liberty, defence, and national sovereignty. The banner’s origin in the revolution and its restoration after periods of political change make it an important emblem of national continuity.

External links and references

• Official flag description
• Haiti: general information
• Adoption and legal acts
• 1986 restoration details
• Flag geometry and specification
• Proportions and measurements
• Blue stripe meaning
• Red stripe meaning
• White panel and coat of arms
• Coat of arms: elements explained
• Palm tree symbolism
• Cannons and military symbols
• Relation to the French Tricolore
• May 25 historical references
• 1964–1986 flag variant
• Political history affecting the flag
• Biographical reference: François Duvalier era
• Biographical reference: Jean‑Claude Duvalier era