UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Saturday that people from Afghanistan to Yemen, Gaza and Sudan continue to suffer from war, hunger and displacement, urging the international community to bridge divisions and support those in need ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
In a message delivered by his spokesperson at UN headquarters in New York, Guterres described Ramadan as a sacred period of reflection and prayer that represents “a higher vision of hope and peace”.
“But for many members of our human family, that vision remains out of reach,” he said.
Referring to ongoing crises in several regions, including Afghanistan, Yemen, Gaza and Sudan, Guterres said: “People continue to suffer from war, hunger, displacement and discrimination.”
He called for efforts to close divides, assist vulnerable communities and uphold the rights and dignity of every individual.
Guterres also referred to his annual tradition of visiting Muslim communities during Ramadan and observing a day of fasting in solidarity.
“Each year, I return inspired by the spirit of peace and compassion of Ramadan,” he said. “May this holy month inspire a shared effort to build a more peaceful, generous and just world.”
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, charity and spiritual reflection.
