Sun, Sunflower, Or Hedgehog? The Changing Of The Kyrgyz Flag
Kyrgyzstan adopted its current flag in March 1992, shortly after the country declared independence from the Soviet Union. The parliament is now considering changes to it.
Current flag
A proposed new flag
Some say that the sunrays, straightened to make them look more like a sun, instead look like a hedgehog.
The sun symbolizes peace and wealth. But its critics say it looks too much like a sunflower.
The sunrays portray the 40 tribes who were united by Manas, the country's national hero.
In the center of the sun is a "tunduk" -- the opening at the top of the traditional Kyrgyz yurt.
A fourth frame was added to the "tunduk" to suggest greater prosperity.
The red background represents bravery and valor.
Current flag
The sunrays portray the 40 tribes who were united by Manas, the country's national hero.
The sun symbolizes peace and wealth. But its critics say it looks too much like a sunflower.
In the center of the sun is a "tunduk" -- the opening at the top of the traditional Kyrgyz yurt.
The red background represents bravery and valor.
A proposed new flag
Some say that the sunrays, straightened to make them look more like a sun, instead look like a hedgehog.
A fourth frame was added to the "tunduk" to suggest greater prosperity.
Current flag
The sunrays portray the 40 tribes who were united by Manas, the country's national hero.
The sun symbolizes peace and wealth. But its critics say it looks too much like a sunflower.
In the center of the sun is a "tunduk" -- the opening at the top of the traditional Kyrgyz yurt.
The red background represents bravery and valor.
A proposed new flag
Some say that the sunrays, straightened to make them look more like a sun, instead look like a hedgehog.
A fourth frame was added to the "tunduk" to suggest greater prosperity.