Have you noticed more flags recently – what do they mean?
If you’ve been on social media lately or walking around your local area, you might have noticed more flags popping up everywhere. On their own, flags are just a symbol of the country, and they can mean different things to different people. Some put them up as symbols of pride, patriotism or just decoration.
What’s happening?
An online campaign called ‘Operation Raise the Colours’ started in August 2025, encouraging people to display the Union Jack and flags of all four UK nations. The campaign’s supporters say it’s about promoting national pride and patriotism. However, some say that the campaign is intended to divide people.
What do the supporters say?
Supporters argue that showing national symbols is a positive way to express pride in your country and community. They believe that flags are symbols of our history, culture and values and we should be proud of this.
The Union Jack, symbolises the United Kingdom, combining the crosses of England, Scotland, and Ireland. In some nations, people feel less connected to the Union Jack, and prefer to fly the national flag. In some nations, like Northern Ireland, the Union Jack also carries a lot of political weight.
Are there any laws around this?
Putting flags up on private property such as your house, garden or business is legal. However, attaching flags to council-owned property, such as lampposts or roundabouts, without permission is illegal. There are also some restrictions on the size of the flag and if it’s obstructing drivers or a public path.
There are also some restrictions on banners and flags in general, if they are displaying an offensive message for example.
Why are people concerned?
Some worry that increased flag use could create division in communities and be used to promote particular political agendas rather than genuine patriotism.
For some residents, particularly those who have immigrated to the UK, sudden increases in flag displays can feel unwelcoming or even threatening, especially if they’re associated with anti-immigration rhetoric.
What should young people do?
Maybe you’re used to feeling pride when seeing flags during a big sporting event, but now you’re not really sure how to feel. Think critically about what national symbols mean to you and your community. Are they bringing people together or dividing them?
The flag debate reflects bigger questions about identity, belonging, and what it means to be British or Welsh in 2025. These are conversations worth having, as long as we keep them respectful. You could channel your feelings into positive action; use social media positively to share verified information, listen to real stories of people who have moved to the UK, or you can write to your local councillor or MP.
