Overview
The flag of Serbia is a horizontal tricolour of red, blue and white. These three Pan‑Slavic colours appear in that specific order from top to bottom. There are two principal variants: a plain civil flag and a state flag that includes the national coat of arms.
Design and characteristics
- Arrangement: three horizontal bands — red (top), blue (middle), white (bottom).
- State emblem: the coat of arms appears on the official state flag used by government bodies.
- Proportions: the flag follows a conventional rectangular ratio used in national practice.
History and development
The tricolour has origins in 19th‑century Serbian national movements and the broader Pan‑Slavic visual language. Over time the exact shades, emblem details and legal definitions changed. The modern legal formulation that governs the official appearance and use of the state flag was confirmed in the early 21st century; the current prescribed form was established on 11 November 2010. For primary sources and legislation see official legislation and summaries of its provisions in history references.
Uses, protocol and symbolism
The flag is displayed at public buildings, diplomatic missions and on national holidays. The coloured bands are commonly interpreted within the Pan‑Slavic tradition, and the version with the coat of arms signals state authority. Guidance on correct colours and manufacture is published by state authorities; see colour symbolism for context.
Notable distinctions
Although several Slavic countries use red, blue and white tricolours, Serbia is distinguished by the order of colours and by the presence of its heraldic arms on the state flag. The coat of arms contains historic motifs such as a double‑headed eagle and the Serbian cross; comparisons with other flags and regional variants are discussed in comparative studies: comparisons.
For images, manufacturing specifications and official guidelines consult the linked sources above.