The Consitution of Papua New Guinea makes provision for the National Flag of Papua New Guinea. In general, what is a national flag? A national flag is a distinctive cloth symbol that represents a country. It is designed with specific colors, patterns, and symbols that often reflect the nation’s history, culture, or values. The flag is typically flown on public buildings, residences, and other locations to symbolize national pride and unity. It is also used in international contexts such as during diplomatic events, sports competitions, and military operations, to identify and represent a country. The national flag is considered a significant and recognizable symbol of a country’s identity and is often afforded legal protection and respect.
The National Flag is one of the national symbols of Papua New Guinea as listed under Section 3 of the Constitution. The Constitution list out the national symbols as follows:
- Flag
- Emblem
- Motto
- Seal
- Anthem
The National Identity Act (Chapter 9) implements section 3 of the Constitution by making provision for the National Flag.
The National Flag of Papua New Guinea
The Papua New Guinea National Flag is a rectangular flag with a proportion of four is to three. It is divided diagonally from the top of the hoist to the bottom of the fly. The upper segment of the flag is scarlet and overprinted with a mid-yellow representation of a soaring Bird of Paradise. The lower segment of the flag is black charged with five white five-pointed stars representing the Southern Cross.
Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise is stylized in silhouette. It is viewed from underneath with wings elevated and display plumes trailing, extending from the middle line parallel to the hoist.
The bird of paradise holds great significance to Papua New Guinea (PNG) as it is the national emblem of the country. It is considered a symbol of national identity and pride. The bird of paradise is known for its vibrant and elaborate feathers, captivating appearance, and unique behavioral displays during courtship. In PNG’s indigenous cultures, the bird of paradise has long been associated with beauty, artistry, and spirituality.
The bird of paradise features prominently in traditional PNG art, including carvings, paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. Its image can be found on various cultural artifacts, like masks and headdresses. The bird of paradise is also depicted in PNG’s currency, stamps, and official documents, reinforcing its significance as a national symbol.
Furthermore, the bird of paradise represents the rich biodiversity of Papua New Guinea. The country is home to numerous species of birds of paradise, with many found exclusively in PNG’s remote rainforests. The presence of these unique and exquisite birds has also contributed to tourism in the country, attracting birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the world.
Overall, the bird of paradise symbolizes the cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique biodiversity of Papua New Guinea, making it a cherished and iconic emblem for the country.
Stars of the Southern Cross
The stars of the Southern Cross that is on the flag are as follows:
- Alpha Crucis
- Beta Crucis
- Gamma Crucis
- Delta Crucis
- Epsilon Crucis
The stars of the Southern Cross are featured on the flag of Papua New Guinea as they hold historical and symbolic significance to the country.
One reason is that Papua New Guinea is located in the Southern Hemisphere, where the Southern Cross constellation is prominently visible. The Southern Cross has long served as a navigational tool for sailors and explorers, allowing them to determine direction. Therefore, its inclusion on the flag reflects Papua New Guinea’s seafaring history and its connection to the ocean.
Another reason is that the Southern Cross has cultural and spiritual significance to the people of Papua New Guinea. In various indigenous cultures, the constellation is associated with myths, legends, and traditional beliefs. It is often regarded as a guide, protector, or a symbol of divine presence. Including the stars of the Southern Cross on the flag acknowledges and celebrates the cultural heritage and spirituality of the Papua New Guinean people.
Furthermore, the Southern Cross has been a symbol of unity and independence in the region. It is also found on the flags of other countries in the Pacific, including Australia and New Zealand. By incorporating the Southern Cross, Papua New Guinea aligns itself with its neighboring countries and establishes a sense of regional identity and unity.
Other flags
The National Flag as described above is the only National Flag of Papua New Guinea. However, the Head of State may appoint such other flags and ensigns of Papua New Guinea as he thinks fits. The Head of State can only make such an appointment upon advice from the National Executive Council. Once the National Executive Council gives such an advice, the Head of State will make this appointment by a proclamation.
Authority to use flags
It is practice in Papua New Guinea where citizens and just about any person uses the National Flag or its replica or representation of it as he pleases. However, this practice is unlawful. The lawful way a person can use the flag is by authorization from the Secretary. The Secretary may authorize a person to use the National Flag or a replica or representation of it. He may do so by instrument. The Secretary shall set out the manner and form in which a person may use the flag in the instrument. Any person who uses the flag must use it without defacement.
Rules as to use of flags
The Head of State may make, and he may cause to be published rules in connection with the flying or use of the National Flag. The Head of State will only make these publications upon advice from the National Executive Council.
Official use of National Flag
The National Flag shall be flown or used for all official purposes of the Government. The National flag shall also be flown or used on all occasions on which it is customary to fly or use a national flag.
Improper use of National Flag
A person who is not authorized to use the National Flag but uses anyway is guilty of an offence. The penalty is a fine not exceeding K50.00. If a person who, without any lawful excuse, defaces or destroys the National Flag, he is guilty of an offence. The penalty is a fine not exceeding K50.00. The State can only sue the offender upon consent of the Attorney General.
All in all, the flag of Papua New Guinea is a national symbol and thus, whoever uses it must use it properly and within the ambit of the laws of Papua New Guinea.
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