The Artsakh Flag 33 Years Later: A Living Symbol of Armenian Resilience and Unity

Photo Credit: Oldhike

Today marks 33 years since the people of Artsakh, also known as the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, adopted its national flag. On June 2, 1992, in the middle of war and uncertainty, the newly declared independent republic chose a flag that would represent their hopes, identity, and unbreakable link to Armenia.

The flag was approved during a special session of the NKR Supreme Council. At the time, the people of Artsakh were fighting for their right to live freely and safely on their ancestral lands. In choosing their flag, they looked to the Armenian national tricolor—red, blue, and orange—and added a unique white, stepped design on the right side.

The white pattern, shaped like a traditional Armenian carpet, starts at both top and bottom and moves inward, forming a five-pronged arrow pointing west. That direction points to Armenia, clearly expressing Artsakh’s desire to unite with the homeland. The steps also represent the mountains of Artsakh, a land known for its natural beauty, strength, and resilience. The zigzag, carpet-like shape is a tribute to Armenian craftsmanship, while the tricolor base connects it to the flag of Armenia. 

In simple terms, the flag says: “We are Armenian. This is our land. And we are proud of who we are.”

In 2006, the people of Artsakh voted in a national referendum to include the flag in their Constitution. Then in 2008, the NKR government passed a law about the national flag, coat of arms, and anthem, making the flag’s role official and unshakable. Even when the region updated its constitution in 2017 and changed its name from the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic to the Republic of Artsakh, the flag stayed the same.

After the devastating events of 2023 and the forced dissolution of the Republic of Artsakh’s institutions in January 2024, many feared the flag might disappear too. But that has not happened. The government of Artsakh, now in exile in Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, has not canceled the flag. And more importantly, neither have the people.

The flag continues to fly at protests, in homes, and across the Armenian diaspora. It is carried by children, worn by elders, and seen at every gathering where the future of Artsakh and Armenia are discussed. For many Armenians, the flag is a reminder of what was lost—and of what still lives in their hearts.

More than anything, the Artsakh flag is a symbol of memory and mission. It reminds us of the bravery of the people who stood for their rights in 1992. It honors those who gave their lives defending their homeland. And it keeps alive the dream that one day, Artsakh will once again be free to govern itself.

Even without official recognition, the flag of Artsakh continues to wave in the hearts of those who believe in justice, peace, and the right to live with dignity. And as long as that belief survives, so too will the flag.

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