Symbolism
The red field represents the struggle for national liberation. The black triangle represents the 'obscurantism' that must be overcome. The yellow triangle represents the traces of colonialism in the country's history. The white star represents peace and guidance.
History
Adopted on May 20, 2002, the day East Timor gained independence from Indonesia. The design was originally used when independence was first declared from Portugal in 1975.
Construction
A 1:2 ratio. A red field with two overlapping triangles at the hoist: a larger yellow one and a smaller black one containing a white star.
Color Meanings
red: The struggle for national liberation
black: Obscurantism and the dark past
yellow: The traces of colonialism and wealth
white: Peace, guidance, and hope
Country Facts
- Population
- 1.4M
<0.1% of Asia
- Capital
- Dili
- Languages
- Portuguese, Tetum
- Continent
- Asia
- Landlocked
- Island state
- Borders
- ISO 3166-1
- TL
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- May 20, 2002
- Proportions
1:2
- Total Colors
- 4
- Key Symbols
- Stars
Influences
1975 independence declaration design
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The star must be white and positioned in the black triangle
- The triangles must overlap from the hoist
Practice
Think you know the flags of Asia? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.