French Muslim Organization Calls for Peace and Solidarity as Ramadan Begins

The UMF calls on Muslims "to seize the opportunity of this blessed month to raise prayers for peace in the world, the protection and prosperity" of France and fellow citizens. "The Muslims of France will know how to find ways to bring to life the spirit of sharing and solidarity of this sacred month by associating with humanitarian and charitable organizations and by providing their support to all our fellow citizens in difficulty as well as to refugees," the UMF believes, adding that the vast majority of mosques in France will organize or distribute meals throughout the month of Ramadan.

The Muslim organization also announced that the "Zakat El Fitr" alms, due from every Muslim family, have been assessed this year at 7 euros per person. "It is intended for the poor regardless of their religious affiliation. It is recommended to benefit the needy in the place of residence of the family. Its payment, which usually takes place at the end of Ramadan, can be made from the first day. The responsibility for distributing this alms can be delegated to a person or a charitable association," the UMF points out.

"Despite the improvement in the health situation in our country with in particular fewer serious cases of Covid-19, it is important to remember that the Covid-19 virus is still circulating and continues to claim victims," the UMF recalls. In this sense, the Muslim organization calls for the wearing of masks in places that do not have sufficient ventilation to the outside and for the observance of hygiene measures and barrier gestures such as hand washing, surface cleaning and room ventilation.