I recently came across an official announcement from the Ministry of Internal Affairs reminding the public to respect and seek approval before using Vanuatu’s national symbols—our flag, coat of arms, national emblem, and presidential standards.
While I absolutely respect our country and the legacy of the flag’s designer, I read the announcement with some reservations.
“Yumi fraet lukaot ol flag blo FIFA World Cup i tekem ples blo Vanuatu flag…”
– Public reaction to flag restrictions
The message is well-intentioned, but I worry that if we over-regulate the use of our national symbols, we could actually weaken the public’s connection to them. The more restrictions we place, the more likely people will turn to using generic or international symbols—like World Cup flags, foreign brands, or global pop culture icons—instead. That would be a loss for national pride, especially among young people.
Restrictions on Using Vanuatu’s National Symbols
To understand the current situation, here are the key restrictions under the State Flag and Armorial Bearings Act [CAP 107]:
- Permit Requirement
It is prohibited to manufacture, sell, display for sale, or use the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Emblem, or Presidential Standard for any business, trade, or professional purpose without prior written permission from the Minister. - Permit Application
Applications must be submitted using the official form and accompanied by a fee. Permits are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. - Unauthorized Use
Using the national symbols without a permit for commercial or professional purposes is illegal. - Penalties
Breaches may lead to fines and confiscation of items used unlawfully.
Why I Hope We Can Reconsider These Restrictions
1. Too Many Rules Could Kill Everyday Patriotism
If people feel they must apply for approval just to wear a flag shirt, use the colours in art, or decorate a local event, they may simply avoid it. This would mean fewer flags flying at independence celebrations, fewer youth embracing the identity, and fewer moments where the nation visually unites.
Flags aren’t just legal items—they’re part of our identity. Pride grows when people feel free to express it.
2. It Hurts Creativity and Local Business
Small business owners, creatives, and young entrepreneurs may want to include the national flag or colours in their products—shirts, stickers, posters, school uniforms, or souvenirs for tourists. If using the flag becomes too restricted or slow to get approval, it kills momentum. It also blocks a valuable opportunity to promote Vanuatu abroad through locally made products.
Over-controlling the symbol could hurt the very communities the law is meant to protect.
3. People Might Feel Silenced Instead of Guided
Especially for youth and community leaders, overly strict rules can create a feeling that the government doesn’t trust its people. When laws feel disconnected from reality, people either rebel or disengage completely. That’s not respect—that’s avoidance.
We need to guide respectful use, not shut it down through red tape.
4. The Digital World Doesn’t Wait for Approval
In today’s world of social media, memes, digital art, and instant sharing, people remix and reuse symbols all the time. It’s not practical—or even possible—to police every image or video that features the flag.
Trying to control every use of the flag in the digital space will only alienate people. Education, not enforcement, is a more realistic path.
5. This Is a Missed Opportunity to Teach, Not Just Restrict
Rather than focusing only on approvals and penalties, the government could create awareness campaigns to educate people on the meaning and importance of our symbols. This includes:
- Providing design guidelines rather than just laws
- Hosting school workshops about national identity
- Encouraging youth-led campaigns on flag respect
When people understand why something matters, they are more likely to protect it.
Lastly
Vanuatu’s national flag and symbols are not just sacred—they are alive. They belong to the people. The goal should not be to lock them away behind a desk and a form. The goal should be to see them proudly flying everywhere, woven into our clothing, culture, and creativity.
Let’s teach respect, not fear. Let’s encourage pride, not paperwork.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this blog are my own and do not represent the official position of any government agency, organisation, or authority. This article is intended to encourage respectful public discussion and reflection. Readers are advised to seek official information directly from the Ministry of Internal Affairs or relevant government bodies for guidance on legal use of national symbols.
Mattdotvu 
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