UN Chief calls for peace, solidarity during Ramadan
As Muslims around the world begin observing the Holy Month of Ramadan, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a message wishing peace and unity to those observing the sacred month.
In his video message on Friday, Guterres expressed his warmest wishes to Muslims worldwide and reflected on the values of compassion, empathy, and generosity that define Ramadan.
The secretary-general noted that Ramadan is not only a time for spiritual reflection but also an opportunity to reconnect with family and community and to remember those who are less fortunate.
“I send my warmest wishes as Muslims around the world begin observing the Holy Month of Ramadan. Ramadan embodies the values of compassion, empathy and generosity.
“It is an opportunity to reconnect with family and community. A chance to remember those less fortunate.
“To all those who will spend this sacred time amid displacement and violence, I wish to express a special message of support,” he stated.
He dedicated a special part of his message to those enduring displacement and violence, offering his support to individuals in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, the Sahel, and other areas affected by conflict and hardship.
In his message, the secretary-general expressed his unwavering solidarity with those suffering and called for peace and mutual respect.
Guterres also shared his annual tradition of visiting Muslim communities across the globe during Ramadan, where he fasts with them to reaffirm the values of Islam and remind the world of its true face.
These visits, he noted, inspire him with a deep sense of peace and reinforce the spirit of the season.
The secretary-general concluded his message by calling on people around the world to be uplifted by the values of Ramadan, urging them to embrace their shared humanity and work together to build a more just and peaceful world.
Guterres said, “I stand with all those who are suffering. From Gaza and the wider region to Sudan, the Sahel and beyond. And I join those observing Ramadan to call for peace and mutual respect.
“Every Ramadan, I undertake a solidarity visit and fast with a Muslim community around the globe. These missions remind the world of the true face of Islam.
“And I always come away even more inspired by the remarkable sense of peace that fills this season.
“In this Holy Month, let us all be uplifted by these values and embrace our common humanity to build a more just and peaceful world for all.”
He ended with a heartfelt “Ramadan Kareem,” extending his best wishes to all observing the Holy Month.
