Belize’s national flag has a royal-blue field with narrow red stripes along the top and bottom and the national coat of arms in a white disc at the centre. It was adopted when Belize became independent in 1981.

What does the Belize flag look like?

The central coat of arms is surrounded by a wreath of 50 leaves. The shield contains tools and a ship connected with the country’s historic timber industry, while two woodcutters stand as supporters.

What do the symbols mean?

The coat of arms reflects the economic importance of mahogany and logwood in colonial Belize. The motto Sub Umbra Floreo means “Under the Shade I Flourish.” The 50 leaves recall 1950, an important year in the development of the modern nationalist movement.

History of the flag

The design grew from the flag of the People’s United Party but was broadened into a national symbol before independence. Red stripes were included so that the final flag would not visually represent only one political party. It became the national flag on September 21, 1981.

Belize flag facts

• Adopted: September 21, 1981
• Main colors: blue, red and white
• Central symbol: national coat of arms
• Motto: Sub Umbra Floreo