European Union Marks 40 Years of Its Flag: A Lasting Symbol of Unity and Shared Purpose
Brussels, Belgium – June 29, 2025 — The European Union today celebrated a historic milestone, marking 40 years since the adoption of its iconic flag, a symbol that has come to embody the Union’s enduring values and aspirations. First adopted on June 29, 1985, the flag features a circle of twelve golden stars set against a blue backdrop, symbolizing harmony, unity, and hope.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen honored the occasion by reflecting on the significance of the emblem. “On this day in 1985, European leaders embraced a symbol that would define who we are,” she said. “Twelve stars forming a circle — not representing states, but ideals: completeness, unity, peace, and solidarity.”
Designed originally by the Council of Europe and later adopted by the European Communities, the flag has become a visual anchor of the European project — widely flown at institutions, summits, public events, and even protests supporting democratic values.
Over four decades, the flag has stood witness to defining chapters in EU history — from the creation of the Eurozone, to successive waves of enlargement, and responses to economic, humanitarian, and environmental crises. Its symbolism has endured as a testament to collective resolve across diverse cultures and languages.
More than just a design, the EU flag represents a shared identity for nearly 500 million citizens. It embodies a common commitment to democracy, cooperation, and human rights, even amid complex global challenges.
As the EU continues to evolve in an ever-changing world, today’s anniversary serves not only as a moment of celebration, but also as a reaffirmation of the principles that unite its members. The flag remains a constant — a beacon of European unity and the shared future its people strive to build together.
