Flag White-red-white Pahonia

The white-red-white flag with the Pahonia is a profound and deeply symbolic banner, representing a core part of Belarusian national identity and history. Distinct from the current official flag, this emblem is revered by many as the true historical symbol of Belarus, embodying a long legacy of struggle for independence and freedom. Its design is a testament to the nation's historical roots and modern aspirations.

Design and Symbolism

The flag is composed of three horizontal stripes of equal width: white on top, a red stripe in the middle, and a white stripe at the bottom. In the center of the red stripe, the ancient Belarusian coat of arms, the Pahonia (meaning "Pursuit"), is prominently displayed.

• The White-Red-White Colors: The colors themselves are linked to the Pahonia. The white is often interpreted as representing purity, freedom, and the light of hope. The red color symbolizes the blood shed in the long fight for independence, as well as the historical heritage and courage of the Belarusian people.

• The Pahonia Emblem: This is the heart of the flag's symbolism. It depicts a silver-armored knight on a white horse, brandishing a silver sword. On his shield, a gold double cross is visible on a red field. The Pahonia is the traditional state emblem of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, of which a significant part of modern Belarus was a constituent part. It represents the historical spirit of defense of the homeland, valor, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom and justice. The double cross is known as the Jagiellonian cross, further emphasizing the historical and dynastic connections to the region.

History of Creation and Adoption

The roots of the flag's colors can be traced back to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The flag was first formally designed by architect Klaudzіj Duzh-Dusheuski and was adopted as the official state flag of the Belarusian People's Republic in 1918. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the white-red-white flag was reinstated as the official state flag of the newly independent Republic of Belarus on September 19, 1991. Its status as the national flag, however, was short-lived. Following a controversial referendum in 1995, it was replaced by a modified version of the Soviet-era flag. Since then, the white-red-white flag has become a powerful symbol for the Belarusian opposition and a beacon for those advocating for democracy and human rights.

Flag Size and Proportions

Historically, the flag's proportions were typically 1:2 or 2:3. The Pahonia emblem, when included, was centrally placed on the red stripe, though there were variations in its size and detailed design over time. Today, as an unofficial symbol, the flag is produced in various sizes, but the three equal horizontal stripes remain the constant and defining feature. The central Pahonia adds a deep historical layer to its meaning.

The Flag and its Meaning for the People

For a large segment of the Belarusian people, the white-red-white flag is not just a historical relic; it is a living symbol of their national identity and sovereignty. It represents the continuous struggle for a free and democratic Belarus, independent of foreign influence. It serves as a visual link to their heritage from the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the short-lived but historically significant Belarusian People's Republic. In recent years, it has become a central icon of the protest movement, uniting thousands of people under a banner that stands for their aspirations for a brighter, more just future. For them, the flag is a declaration of patriotism, courage, and a commitment to democratic values.

Interesting Facts

• The creator of the flag, Klaudzіj Duzh-Dusheuski, was an architect and diplomat who designed the banner during the turbulent years of the First World War.

• The Pahonia is one of the oldest state emblems in Eastern Europe, having been used for centuries as the coat of arms of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

• The 1995 referendum that replaced the flag was highly controversial. Opponents of the change argued it was a politically motivated move to suppress the nation's historical symbols and align the country more closely with its Soviet past.

• The white-red-white color scheme is thought by some historians to have originated from a medieval banner of a Lithuanian Grand Duke. The banner was white with a red cross, which could be seen as the historical precursor to the modern design.

The white-red-white flag with the Pahonia remains an enduring and emotionally charged symbol for the Belarusian people, a testament to their rich history and their ongoing pursuit of self-determination.

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