Flag dispute between Monaco and Indonesia.
PM Modi is on a visit to Indonesia. That Indonesia whose flag became the cause of dispute with Monaco. The news of the controversy made headlines across the world. If you see the flag of Indonesia and Monaco, you will hardly be able to differentiate between them. There are two stripes in the flags of both the countries. Red on top and white on the bottom. Now the question is why and how do two countries have the same flag? Who first used this red and white flag?
To know the answer to this question, we first have to understand the story of Monaco. Monaco officially adopted this flag, which had red and white stripes, on April 4, 1881, during the reign of Prince Charles III. This flag depicts the emblem of the ruling dynasty of the 14th century.Indonesia declared independence and officially hoisted the red and white flag on August 17, 1945, marking its adoption. From here the foundation of the controversy was laid.
Why did Indonesia stand firm despite Monaco’s objection?
When Indonesia adopted this flag, the matter reached Monaco. Monaco argued that Indonesia should have chosen a different design to avoid confusion, but Indonesia is sticking to its flag. Many arguments were given behind this decision. It was claimed that the red and white flag of Indonesia has historical roots, which are linked to the Majapahit Empire from the 13th to 15th centuries. Historically and culturally the colors red and white have been the hallmark of the Indonesian island. Even before the formation of Monaco, its connection has been there.
The flag of Monaco is slightly square in shape. Photo: Pexels
Despite all the controversy and Monaco’s arguments, the then government of Indonesia refused to change its national flag. Explaining the reason for this, he said that the red and white colors have long been a symbol of the struggle of the Indonesian people, which has no connection with Monaco. The choice and color of the national flag is not related to the flag of any other country, but to the history of the country.
What solution was found?
Amidst the dispute, both the countries found a solution so that confusion regarding this issue can be avoided at the international level in future. Both the countries decided to prepare their respective flags in different size proportions.
Indonesia kept the ratio of the flag at 2:3. Whereas, Monaco adopted the ratio of 4:5. That means the flag looks small and square. However, these differences are so subtle that it is difficult to spot them at a glance. This can be understood only by looking carefully at the red and white colors.
The flag of Indonesia is more rectangular. Photo: Pexels
changed the tone of red
Apart from the size, the only change that happened was the red colour. Indonesia and Monaco both use red and white, but the specific shades of red they choose differ slightly. Pantone Red 032 is used in the flag of Indonesia. Monaco Red, on the other hand, uses 032C, which appears darker in color. Although it is generally difficult to differentiate between the two colors, it is very important in the world of graphic design and printing.
It is an honor to be elected to the Parliament of Indonesia. India and Indonesia are connected by history, culture, and inter-community relations that have been explored for centuries. Together, we will continue to work together to create the future pic.twitter.com/TVNWUIm1Ng
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 7, 2026
meaning of colors
Even though the flags of both the countries look similar, the colors have different meanings.In Indonesia, red color is a symbol of people’s struggle and bravery. White color represents honesty and purity. In this way the flag here is a symbol of independence and national spirit. Whereas in the case of Monaco, white and white represent the symbols of the Grimaldi dynasty, not revolution and struggle. It is more a symbol of aristocratic heritage.
Also read: How special is the Prambanan temple in Indonesia which has the story of Ramayana on its walls? Where will PM Modi go
