The updated law on state symbols will feature a reference image of the flag and three color versions of the coat of arms

13/05/20200 views

Deputies are preparing amendments to the Law "On State Symbols of the Republic of Belarus" for the first reading. It is planned that the appendix to the law will include a reference image of the State Flag and three additional colour versions of the State Emblem. This was reported to a BELTA correspondent by Viktor Svillo, Deputy Chairman of the Standing Commission on State Building, Local Self-Government and Regulations of the House of Representatives.

The appendices to the law will undergo changes, in particular. The current version has three appendices (a black-and-white image of the State Emblem, the musical score, and the lyrics of the State Anthem), while the draft has seven. "It is proposed to establish a reference image of the State Flag. The current version of the law does not have it. It is kept in the National Archives. Now, the reference image will be in the appendix to the text of the law," the parliamentarian noted.

In addition to the black-and-white version of the emblem, three more reference images will be added – gold, silver, and multi-coloured. "Some of its elements (ears of wheat, flowers) will be drawn in more detail using new computer technologies. The star will become less militarised. The tilt of the axis of the globe will be changed so that the outlines of the country's borders are in the centre," Viktor Svillo explained. He clarified that at one time, the image of the globe retained its orientation towards the USSR. "Belarus is a sovereign state, and it is logical to place its borders in the centre of the composition," the parliamentarian added. At the same time, he drew attention to the fact that the ideological content of the state symbols of Belarus remains unchanged. The amendments to the law are being introduced taking into account modern aesthetic perceptions and new possibilities that have become available to artists thanks to computer technologies.

Viktor Svillo noted that the adjustment of state symbols would not require additional costs. "The bill provides for a transition period for replacement. It is determined not by specific calendar dates, but by the measure of necessity. If, for example, forms with the coat of arms run out, then new ones will be ordered with the one that corresponds to the new standards. Thus, no costs will be required, the replacement will take place in the usual course of business," the deputy emphasized.

The amendments also provide for the expansion of the scope of application of state symbols. In particular, the bill prescribes their use during sports competitions, mass sports, cultural and entertainment events, etc.

It is expected that the amendments to the law on state symbols will be considered in the first reading at a meeting of the House of Representatives on May 21.