New Standards for the Use of the National Flag: What’s Changing?

Major changes are set to be introduced regarding the use of state symbols in Kazakhstan. A draft decree prepared by the Ministry of Culture and Information is currently available for public discussion on the "Open NPA" portal until April 23.

From now on, ordinary citizens and legal entities will be permitted to freely display the national flag on buildings, residential houses, and balconies. The use of the "blue banner" will even be encouraged during family celebrations and solemn events.

"This allows us to shift patriotism from a format of 'compulsion from above' to 'support from below,'" ministry officials explained.

To maintain aesthetic uniformity, specific standards will be introduced:

The flag must be installed at a 45-degree angle. For homeowners, the flag pole height must be at least 3 meters. Illumination during nighttime is not mandatory.

Under the new rules, the national flag must be permanently displayed not only at akimats and ministries but also at:

• All educational, medical, and sports organizations (regardless of ownership).

• Offices of all national holdings and companies with state participation.

The project details strict measures to protect the dignity of the flag:

• No Contact: The flag must not touch the ground, water, or the floor.

• Prohibited Uses: It is forbidden to use the state flag as clothing, curtains, bedding, or for advertising purposes.

• Condition: Using a flag that is dirty, worn out, or faded is strictly prohibited.

The proposal also includes linguistic and technical updates:

• National Anthem: It is suggested to change the Kazakh term from "Memlekettik Gimn" to "Memlekettik Änuran."

• Coat of Arms: Specific dimensions will be established, such as 25 cm for rostrums (podiums) and 2.5 cm for documents.

These initiatives are designed to increase public respect for state symbols and create conditions for citizens to use them with pride in their daily lives.