Flag of the United Nations

The flag of the United Nations is the official flag of the United Nations (UN). It consists of a white emblem in the center on a blue background. The emblem depicts a map of the world as viewed from the North Pole, surrounded by two open olive branches.

The map represents all lands on earth, signifying that the organization's work is global in scope. The olive branches are a traditional symbol of peace. The blue of the background is commonly known as "UN blue" and is the identifying color of the organization's equipment and operations, including the berets worn by peacekeeping personnel.

History

The emblem was first designed during the San Francisco Conference in 1945, at which the United Nations was founded. The emblem was subsequently modified, particularly in its depiction of the map, before being adopted by the General Assembly. The flag was adopted in the late 1940s and became the official flag of the organization.

Design and usage regulations

The United Nations maintains regulations governing the use of the emblem and flag, including specifications for dimensions, proportions, and colors. Use of the emblem outside the organization requires authorization, which is withheld to prevent commercial use or the appearance of endorsement that does not exist. The flag is displayed at UN headquarters, offices, and peacekeeping operations.

Related emblems

Specialized agencies and programs of the United Nations—such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and WHO—have their own emblems, which typically feature the olive branches or blue color but differ from the main flag. The UN flag has also become a symbol for use beyond the organization, such as during international commemorative occasions.