What is the UN emblem?

The United Nations has existed for more than half a century, but far from everyone knows what flag it is, what the UN emblem is and what is the meaning of the image on the proudly fluttering flag near the headquarters in New York?

The symbol of reconciliation

In various emblems and emblems, their owners always put a certain message. Depending on the direction of the organization and its activities, the image becomes a method of identification. It was decided to put intimidating elements on various coats of arms, to denote successes and achievements of the owner. The UN emblem is designed to fully characterize the organization as a peacekeeping.

It shows a map of the world, enclosed in olive branches. The emblem is white, and it is located on a blue background.

The meaning of the individual elements on the emblem

The work of the Organization presupposes peacekeeping activity, assistance of its representatives to countries that found themselves in a difficult situation, in a zone of natural disasters or military conflicts.

The image of the map of the world, which contains the UN emblem, is designed to convey to all that any country and nation on the planet can count on, and two branches of an olive tree, like palms embracing the Earth, symbolize peaceful intentions. The olive branch is a kind of brand of peace and harmony.

What do the colors on the UN flag mean?

The very color solution, in which the UN emblem is executed, symbolizes purity of thoughts. And although the official confirmation of the fact that when choosing colors, designers were guided by certain criteria, no, colors, their saturation, shades always have an effect on the person's perception of the image. White color is usually associated with innocence, crystal purity. It was this impression that designers sought when they designed the logo for the United Nations. The whole world had to learn that this structure is unbiased, does not represent the interests of any of its participants and, in general, is absolutely impartial in its actions and judgments.

Such a UN philosophy is reinforced with a background on which the symbol of the organization is depicted. The sky-blue color of the flag is intended to demonstrate the strength and confidence, as well as the loyalty and authority that this institution possesses.

Plant element

Since the days of Ancient Greece, the olive branch is considered a certain sign of prosperity and fertility. It is this plant that gave a livelihood in an arid country with stony soil and rather difficult living conditions. A good harvest of olives was vital for the whole country. In addition, according to legend, the goddess Athena created the olive tree .

In addition to Greek legends, the olive branch is also found in the Bible, its leaf brought the dove to Noah, which meant the end of God's wrath and the beginning of a new life in harmony with the higher power. Therefore, it is not surprising that this plant is depicted on the UN emblem.

History of creation

Donald McLaughlin designed the emblem design at the request of the General Assembly. Immediately after the founding of the UN, the organizers realized the necessity of having their own symbolism and flag needed.

However, few people know that the modern emblem is not the only one. There were two options, the first was invented in 1945, but after some changes, a year later, the world saw the UN emblem, which the organization enjoys to this day.

At first glance, the arms are not much different, but still there is a difference. The first option provided that the world map is located in the figure in a more upright position. At the moment it is an equidistant azimuthal projection.

The design of the emblem for the UN is also used as the official seal and the figure on the flag. Such a decision was adopted almost immediately after approval by the Assembly.

Using the flag and emblem

The seriousness and the closed nature of this organization characterize the fact that the UN emblem and flag should not be used without official permission. Such a decision was made with a view to avoiding illegal exploitation, as well as speculation from unscrupulous organizations.

To gain access and permission, you need to contact the UN. To do this, write to their head office, or rather the Executive Secretary, who will file a petition with the UN Secretary-General. The decision is made there, and on its basis the requester receives a response.

Flag

The approval of the flag, as the emblem of the UN, occurred somewhat later than its creation. The resolution is dated October 20, 1947. The decision was then taken unanimously by all members of the General Assembly.

The flag is a blue cloth with an image on it. The UN emblem can be located on one or both sides. There are no clear recommendations and instructions on this score. However, it must be centered. The size of the flag and its shape are also not mandatory criteria. What does it mean? You can use the flags of both square and rectangular shapes.