The flag of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (French: Drapeau des Terres Australes et Antarctiques Françaises) consists of the French tricolor with a white border in the canton, and in the lower fly, the letters T.A.A.F form a monogram resembling an anchor, surrounded by five white stars. The stars are often interpreted as representing the five regions of the territory, although this is not explicitly stated in the decree to adopt the flag. This flag symbolizes the French sovereignty over the overseas territory, comprising Adélie Land, the Crozet Islands, the Kerguelen Islands, Saint Paul and Amsterdam Islands, and the Scattered Islands, as well as its commitment to scientific research and environmental preservation in these remote regions.
| Proportion: | 2:3 |
|---|---|
| Adopted: | February 23, 2007 |
| Flag image: | Animated GIF (25 frames looped) |
| Flag emoji code: | 🇹🇫 |
The French Southern and Antarctic Lands is a remote overseas territory of France encompassing several island groups in the southern Indian Ocean and a sector of Antarctica known as Adélie Land. Comprising Adélie Land, the Crozet Islands, the Kerguelen Islands, Saint Paul and Amsterdam Islands, and the Scattered Islands, the territory is primarily uninhabited, with scientific research stations housing a fluctuating population of around 400 to 800 individuals. The territory's main economic activities include fishing, scientific research, and conservation efforts. TAAF serves as a vital hub for scientific exploration and environmental preservation in one of the world's most pristine and remote regions, while also maintaining a symbolic link to French sovereignty in Antarctica.
1 comment: