Amman, April 15 (Petra) -- Jordanians will mark Flag Day on Thursday, a national and symbolic occasion celebrating the flag as a representation of sovereignty, identity, and unity. While the meanings associated with flags differ from one country to another, they share a core purpose of strengthening national belonging and reinforcing values of loyalty and pride.

In Jordan, Flag Day carries deeper significance, extending beyond a ceremonial event to become a national framework that renews the country’s narrative, linking the past with the present while looking ahead amid regional and global transformations. The occasion underscores that preserving national identity does not contradict openness but rather enhances it and enables the state to maintain balance in a changing environment.

Speaking to Petra, President of the Jordanian Historians Association Ghaleb Arabiat said the designation of April 16 as Jordanian Flag Day in 2021, under directives from His Majesty King Abdullah II, represents a unifying national milestone that recalls the country’s history, strengthens national identity, and reinforces the flag’s presence in collective consciousness as an enduring symbol.

"The flag is not merely a banner to be raised; it is a condensed text that carries within it the story of the state, its history and its values," Arabiat said, noting that the Jordanian flag, derived from the legacy of the Arab Revolt, reflects the transition of the Arab project from a liberation movement to a stable state model that has maintained balance and continuity.

He added that the flag serves as an entry point to understanding Jordan’s national narrative, which is built on key elements including historical legitimacy, a unifying identity, political stability, and national resilience, strengthening the connection of successive generations to these principles.

Arabiat said the historical significance of the flag’s colours black, white, green, and red is rooted in Arab civilization, symbolizing different historical eras, from early Islamic banners to the Arab Revolt of 1916.

He noted that beyond its historical dimension, continuity is a defining feature, as Jordan has maintained its flag unchanged since 1928, reflecting the stability of national identity and state continuity, in contrast to flag changes in some countries that signal deep political transformations amid global volatility.

He said the Hashemite leadership plays a central role in reinforcing the symbolism of the flag and embedding its place in national consciousness, adding that the adoption of Flag Day forms part of a broader vision aimed at strengthening a unified national identity, reinforcing belonging, enhancing internal cohesion, supporting political stability and building trust between the state and society.

Arabiat highlighted the importance of the flag in shaping national awareness among younger generations, particularly youth, underscoring the role of educational and media institutions in embedding its symbolism and translating it from a symbol into values reflected in daily behavior. Public participation in Flag Day through raising flags and organizing events reflects its strong presence in society and enhances a sense of belonging, he added.

He stressed that the media plays a key role in amplifying the flag’s symbolism by highlighting its meanings and strengthening its presence in public awareness, as well as leveraging digital platforms to promote national values among younger generations, thereby reinforcing the relationship between citizens and state institutions.

For his part, President of the Jordanian Writers Union, Elayan Al-Adwan, said the flag carries a deeply rooted national symbolism that approaches sanctity through loyalty and belonging to the nation, its land, its Hashemite leadership, the Jordan Armed Forces and security services.

He said April 16 represents a national day for the land, the nation and its people, marked by the raising of flags that continue to fly high, noting that the Arab Revolt was a major liberation movement led by free Arabs.

Al-Adwan added that the flag instills in younger generations a love of country and leadership and that its symbolism must be preserved and honored, strengthening morale, resilience, and stability and helping ensure Jordan remains a haven of security and stability.

He said Flag Day is not merely symbolic but is reflected in daily life, with flags raised on rooftops in downtown areas and displayed on shopfronts and vehicles while children proudly carry them, illustrating their deep-rooted presence in the hearts of Jordanians.

In the heart of Amman, Jordanians view the flag as a unifying language that embodies belonging, with streets, squares and both public and private institutions adorned in its colors, reflecting national cohesion and a strong connection to the symbol of the state and its sovereignty.

//Petra// AF

15/04/2026 21:26:55