Mandate for not showing the flag? We explain
For many Poles, a long May weekend is an opportunity to forget about work and go out of town, to the plot or spread the sunbed on the balcony. But this is also a time when a white and red flag becomes part of the landscape-it appears at homes, offices, schools.
That’s right – is it an obligation or just a tradition? Who has to hang the flag and who can? And can you get a ticket for the lack of it?
Flag in a picnic. Duty or option?
In the May calendar we have three holidays in a row: May 1 (Labor Day), May 2 (Flag Day of the Republic of Poland) and May 3 (Constitution Day of May 3). For many, it is a “golden time” for the grill, but for you – an opportunity to remind of national symbols.
Pursuant to the regulations, state and local government offices and other public institutions have the obligation to display the flag. This is not a suggestion or a kind request – this is an obligation arising from the Act on the emblem, colors and anthem of the Republic of Poland. The flag is to hang and the end.
But if you are the owner of the house, you live in a block of flats or run a company – you can, but you don’t have to. The flag on the balcony or in front of the office is an expression of patriotism, but not a legal obligation.
Mandate for the lack of a flag?
Good news: For the lack of a flag on the balcony, nobody will punish you. The police will not knock on the door with a mandate block. The situation is different in the case of offices – there the control may have the consequences if someone forgets a national holiday.
But beware! If you already hang the flag, do it with your head. It cannot be torn, dirty, rolled up like an old rag. A flag touching the ground? Badly too. And absolutely no drawings or inscriptions. And the flag with the emblem? Only for diplomats and official institutions.
For insulting the flag there is even a year in prison – this is not a joke anymore.
Patriotism lightly
Is it worth hanging the flag? Bright! This is a small gesture that shows that we remember about important dates. And although not everyone feels national pride at the grilled neck, it is worth remembering at least once a year where we are from. And a white and red flag is a good start.
