Kurdistan Flag Day: A symbol of identity, resistance, hope

Dec. 17, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Every December 17th, Kurdistan celebrates its flag day, a significant juncture honored across the Kurdistan Region and by Kurdish communities worldwide through special ceremonies and commemorative events.

The historical importance of the Kurdish flag goes back to 1919 when Dr. Kamaran Bedrkhan first offered it to European countries.

Decades later, the flag became a mighty symbol of Kurdish identity and resistance, gradually acquiring importance among Kurdish student organizations in Europe and later in political and cultural contexts.

The Kurdistan Parliament officially recognized December 17th as Flag Day through legislation.

Specifically, on Nov. 11, 1999, the parliament passed Law No. 4 regarding the region's flag, and later by Resolution No. 48 on June 19, 2009, formally established the annual commemoration.

The date holds immense historical meaning, marking Dec. 17, 1945, when the Kurdish flag was first hoisted over the institutions of the Kurdistan Republic in Mahabad - a pivotal moment in Kurdish national consciousness.

The flag's colors carry deep symbolic significance:

- Red: Symbolizing revolution, blood sacrificed in struggle, courage, strength, and equality

- Yellow: Representing light, brilliance, vigilance, and fire

- White: Embodying peace, tranquility, and ceasefire

- Green: Signifying homeland, protection, youth, and verdant landscapes

Following its prominence in fighting against terrorism, the Kurdistan flag has become internationally recognized as a symbol of Peshmerga resistance and Kurdish resilience.

This annual celebration not only honors the flag but reaffirms Kurdish national identity, historical struggle, and hopes for the future.