Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesBA, BIH, 070
Official NameBosnia and Herzegovina
ContinentEurope
CapitalSarajevo
Government TypeParliamentary constitutional republic
CurrencyConvertible mark (BAM)
Calling Code+387
Member OfUnited Nations, Council of Europe, Partnership for Peace
PopulationApprox. 3.3 million (as of 2023)
Total Area51,197 square kilometers
Highest PointMaglić (2,386 meters or 7,828 feet)
Lowest PointAdriatic Sea (0 meters or 0 feet)
GDP Per CapitaApprox. $6,000 (as of 2023)
Life ExpectancyApprox. 77 years (as of 2023)
Internet TLD.ba

National Anthem of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Državna himna Bosne i Hercegovine

You’re the light of the soul
Eternal fire’s flame
Mother of ours, land of Bosnia
I belong to you
In the heart are your rivers
Your mountains
Proud and noble
Is your name, homeland of mine
Let’s raise our heads
Our homeland, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Flag

The flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina, adopted on February 4, 1998, is a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and unity. The design of the flag was a result of a competition and compromise after the Bosnian War, reflecting the nation’s complex history and ethnic diversity.

The flag features a medium blue field with a yellow right triangle adjacent to the hoist side and seven full five-pointed white stars and two half stars along the hypotenuse. The blue color symbolizes Europe, and the stars, influenced by the European Union flag, are meant to represent Europe as well. The yellow triangle represents the shape of the country and its three constituent peoples: Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs. The stars, which do not vary in size, are arranged in an infinite diagonal line, suggesting the concept of continuity and the future of the nation.

Before this current flag, Bosnia and Herzegovina used a different flag with historical and religious symbolism related to its three main ethnic groups. However, the need for a neutral symbol that would represent all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina led to the adoption of the current flag. This was especially important in the post-war period, where a unifying symbol was needed to foster peace and reconciliation among the diverse population.

The flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina is unique in its representation of the country’s commitment to peace, unity, and integration into the European community. It stands as a symbol of the country’s past struggles, its complex cultural tapestry, and its aspirations for a harmonious and integrated future. The flag is prominently displayed in public buildings and at national and international events, symbolizing the pride and identity of the Bosnian people.