Flag of the Caribbean Commonwealth

The flag of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is a powerful and unified symbol representing the collective heritage, solidarity, and future aspirations of the peoples of the Caribbean. The flag's design is a visual representation of the organization's core values and its commitment to political, economic, and social integration. It stands as a beacon of regional cooperation and a reminder of the shared goals and identity of its member states.

Design and Symbolism

The flag’s design is rich in symbolism, with each element carefully chosen to represent the core values and aspirations of the CARICOM community.

• Blue Background: The flag is divided horizontally into two shades of blue. The upper half is a light blue, representing the sky, while the lower half is a darker blue, symbolizing the deep Caribbean Sea. These colors highlight the region's shared natural environment.

• Yellow Sun: In the center of the flag is a yellow circle, representing the radiant sun of the Caribbean. It signifies the warmth, energy, and vitality of the region and its people.

• Black Interlocking 'C's: Inside the yellow circle, there is a logo of two interlocking black 'C's. These letters stand for Caribbean Community. The 'C's are designed as broken links in a chain, symbolizing both the unity of the member states and their break with the colonial past.

• Green Ring: Surrounding the central sun is a narrow ring of green, which represents the lush vegetation and fertile lands of the region, emphasizing its agricultural wealth and natural beauty.

History of Creation and Adoption

The flag was officially approved at the Fourth Conference of Heads of Government in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, in July 1983. The original design was created by the firm of WINART Studies in Georgetown, Guyana. The flag was first officially flown a year later at the Fifth Conference of Heads of Government in Nassau, The Bahamas, in July 1984. This marked a significant milestone for the organization, which was established by the Treaty of Chaguaramas in 1973. The flag has since become a permanent and recognizable symbol of CARICOM's existence and mission.

Countries of the Region

CARICOM is composed of 15 member states: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, there are five associate members: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos Islands. These nations represent a diverse mix of island and mainland territories, all united by their shared identity and goals.

Meaning for Inhabitants

For the residents of the CARICOM member states, the flag is a powerful emblem of their shared identity and collective destiny. It represents the commitment of their governments to working together for economic development, political stability, and social progress. The flag's symbolism, from the unifying waters of the Caribbean Sea to the fertile lands and the shared break from the colonial past, deeply resonates with a population that is bound by a common history and culture. It fosters a sense of solidarity and a common purpose, encouraging citizens to see themselves not just as nationals of their respective countries, but as members of a larger, unified Caribbean family. The flag symbolizes the hope for a future of peace, prosperity, and seamless integration.

Interesting Facts

• The two shades of blue on the flag are Pantone Process Blue (light blue) and Pantone 072 Blue (dark blue).

• The CARICOM logo within the flag's sun is a registered trademark of the organization.

• CARICOM Day is celebrated on July 4th, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas. On this day, many citizens are encouraged to wear the colors of the CARICOM flag to show regional pride.

• The flag is an integral part of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) initiative, which aims to create a single economic space for the region.

• The flag is often flown at official CARICOM institutions, events, and border crossings, serving as a constant reminder of the Community's presence and mission.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.