UN Chief Urges Unity and Compassion as Ramadan Approaches

HAMILTON, Canada, Feb 14 :  United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday highlighted the approaching Islamic holy month of Ramadan, calling on the global community to “bridge divides, deliver help, and bring hope to those in need.”

Speaking through UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres described Ramadan as “a sacred period of reflection and prayer, representing a noble vision of hope and peace.” He noted, however, that for many around the world, this vision remains out of reach.

“From Afghanistan to Yemen, from Gaza to Sudan and beyond, people continue to suffer from conflict, hunger, displacement, and discrimination,” Dujarric said, emphasizing the urgent need for solidarity and humanitarian action.

The UN chief urged everyone to heed the enduring message of Ramadan: to build bridges across divides, protect human dignity, and provide support to those who are vulnerable.

Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, begins next week, during which Muslims worldwide observe fasting from sunrise to sunset as a form of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and community solidarity.