UNHCR launched “Ramadan Table” for people forced to flee as part of the “7th Ramadan and Zakat campaign” in Thailand

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, works with Islamic organizations to develop specific tools for donors to support refugees from Muslim countries, including the Refugee Zakat Fund. Zakat is a mandatory donation that Muslims give to eligible beneficiaries such as the poor, debtors and stranded travellers. 

The number of people displaced by war, persecution, violence, and human rights violations globally is likely to have exceeded 114 million and nearly 50 per cent of refugees coming from member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

In Thailand, UNHCR, in partnership with the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, the Islamic Bank of Thailand and TV Burabha Group, launched the 7^th Ramadan and Zakat campaign to invite donors to extend the Ramadan table to those in need.

“Ramadan table is the analogy to the iftar dinner table which is a place of joy and gratitude when families come together. Still, refugees often do not have such a place because their lives are torn apart by conflict and natural disasters. They face hunger and insecurity.” said Babar Baloch, Senior Communications Officer, Regional Bureau Asia & the Pacific, UNHCR, “This Ramadan, we are introducing our concept of the Ramadan table, so that your Zakat/Donation can ensure displaced families can afford essential food, water, and shelter.”

UNHCR’s Ramadan and Zakat campaign has been endorsed by the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand since its inception in 2018. The campaign was established according to Islamic principles to help those in distress and provide protection to refugees and displaced Muslims around the world.

“On behalf of Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, I am pleased to join UNHCR’s global fundraising initiative to support refugees who observe the holy month of Ramadan away homes,” said Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdullah. Noomsuk, Vice – Chairman, Experts and Eminent Persons Board, Sheikhul Islam of Thailand.  “Donations are essential for UNHCR to save lives and help vulnerable families, most of whom fall under at least four of the eight Zakat categories mentioned in the Qu’ran.”

UNHCR’s Zakat initiative complies with the Shariah requirements. In collaboration with Tabah Foundation for Research and Consultation and today’s 17 leading Islamic legal scholars (fatwas) and institutes in Egypt, Yemen, Morocco, Mauritania and Thailand, UNHCR is allowed to collect and distribute Zakat to forcibly displaced people affected by war and conflict to enable them to have enough food, clean water, safe shelter, and cash assistance.

“The Islamic Bank of Thailand believes in creating change in Thai society and being responsible for the world. The continuation of this year’s assistance will be more important as refugees are facing dire situation,” said Dr. Thaweelap Rittapirom, Director and President of Islamic Bank of Thailand. “In the month of Ramadan, our home and dining table are happy places where families gather. However, for refugees, these places are not available. Your donations will help refugees and displaced families to access vital assistance”.

Funds raised by Islamic philanthropy in Thailand and globally have helped more than 1.5 million refugees and displaced people in 21 countries around the world, such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Yemen and Nigeria.

Media plays an important role in creating awareness and getting the message across to the Thai Muslim community.

Refugees and displaced people continue to experience an unprecedented crisis. “Ramadan and Zakat campaign” will enable UNHCR to provide humanitarian support to those in need. Our unique cash-assistance programme guarantees that 100% of Zakat contributions go directly to the people in need and is subject to rigorous governance and control, ensuring transparency throughout the process from collection to distribution.

Donate now at  www.unhcr.org/th/en

Your Zakat and Sadaqah donations are a lifeline for families in need this Ramadan. Don’t give up on them. Donate now at www.unhcr.org/th/en