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French Polynesia: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — French Polynesia

History of the flag

The flag is a symbol of freedom and, according to the 2004 Organic Law, is one of 'the distinctive signs that mark the personality of the country alongside the national emblem and the signs of the French Republic'.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • A Polynesian pirogue and sail with five motifs representing the five archipelagos. Above, a sun charged with ten gold-coloured rays symbolizing life. The pirogue floats on five rows of azure-blue waves, a sign of abundance.

  • Traditional Tahitian colours inspired by the flag of the Kingdom of Tahiti (1788 - 1880).

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