What flags can be flown in North Cyprus?

In Northern Cyprus the flags that are commonly flown and legally permitted are:

✅ Permitted and Commonly Flown Flags:

1. Flag of the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus):

   • White background with two red horizontal stripes and a red crescent and star in the center.

   • This is the official flag of Northern Cyprus and is flown on all government buildings, schools, and public institutions.

     
     

2. Flag of Turkey:

   • Red with a white star and crescent.

   • This flag is flown alongside the TRNC flag in nearly all public and many private places due to the political and cultural ties between Turkey and Northern Cyprus.

🚫 Restricted or Not Officially Recognized Flags:

1. Flag of the Republic of Cyprus:

   • White flag with a copper-colored map of the island and two olive branches.

   • This flag is associated with the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus and is generally not flown in Northern Cyprus. It can be controversial to display it publicly.

     
     

2. EU Flag:

   • Blue with yellow stars.

   • Not commonly seen in Northern Cyprus, as the TRNC is not recognized by the EU. However, private individuals may occasionally display it.

     
     

3. Greek Flag:

   • Blue and white stripes with a white cross.

   • Strongly discouraged and potentially provocative in Northern Cyprus due to political sensitivities.

Other Flags:

• British Flag (Union Jack):

  • Sometimes seen in tourist areas or homes of expats, especially in places with many British residents. It is not illegal, but should be displayed respectfully to avoid misunderstandings.

    
    

• Club, Company, or Regional Flags:

  • Flags for sports teams (e.g., Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray), organizations, or local municipalities are often flown without issue.

Summary:

In practice, the TRNC flag and the Turkish flag are the two dominant and officially accepted flags in Northern Cyprus. Others may be tolerated in personal spaces, but anything politically symbolic (like the Republic of Cyprus or Greek flag) should be used with caution, especially in public areas.