The European flag was officially adopted by the Council of Europe, an organization founded in 1949 to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law among its member states. The design of the flag, created by French artist Arsène Heitz and inspired by the circle of stars in the Virgin Mary’s crown, consists of a blue background adorned with a circle of twelve golden stars. The choice of twelve stars is symbolic, as it has various interpretations including completeness and unity. This emblem was adopted to foster a sense of shared identity and cooperation among European nations in the aftermath of the devastation of World War II.

The timing of the flag’s adoption was crucial, as Europe was undergoing significant changes and striving towards integration and peace. The Council of Europe's mission to unite countries under the principles of democracy and human rights was reflected in the symbol of the flag. It would later also be embraced by the European Economic Community and the European Union, reinforcing its status as a primary symbol of European unity, transcending geographic and political divisions.

The blue and yellow colors of the flag were likewise chosen to promote ideas of peace and harmony. The flag has since become a recognizable symbol not just for the Council of Europe but for all of Europe, embodying the aspirations of European citizens for a shared future. It continued to be a powerful emblem through various European treaties and integration processes leading up to the present-day European Union.