Latest news with #RefugeeZakatFund
The National
30-03-2025
- Politics
- The National
Eid Al Fitr in a changing Middle East
Eid is always a special time. For many in the Middle East, this year's celebration of Eid Al Fitr holds even more significance. While the festival's position as an unchanging fixture of the region's calendar remains, some countries that mark this important Islamic holiday are going through profound and rapid change. In Syria, millions of Muslims are observing the end of Ramadan in a nation that has thrown off decades of Assad family rule. Although Syria still faces many serious problems and its transition to a new beginning has had some painful setbacks, this is the first time in years that families and communities have been able to come together for Eid Al Fitr with a sense of optimism that better days may lie ahead. In neighbouring Lebanon, Eid celebrations are also taking place in changed circumstances. Plagued for years by political inertia and a lack of effective leadership, a new government in Beirut has been formed that at least offers the prospect of stability and prosperity after too many decades of conflict, economic turmoil and division. An important part of Eid Al Fitr and the holy month that preceded it is their call to renew social solidarity and our commitment to good causes. In Syria, Lebanon and many other countries, Muslims will have already offered Zakat Al Fitr – a obligatory charitable donation to help the less-fortunate celebrate the end of Ramadan. Such alms-giving can have a powerful impact; the UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund, for example, supports almost nine million forcibly displaced people in 31 countries thanks to contributions from more than 40,000 donors. This determination to do good during Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr has also been prominent in the UAE. On Friday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai revealed that a Ramadan campaign to help those in need raised more than Dh3.72 billion ($1.01 billion) in donations. The Fathers' Endowment campaign to provide treatment and health care for the needy attracted contributions from 277,000 donors. The spirit of Ramadan was also evident in the run-up to the holy month. In mid-February, it was announced that the UAE would send 300 tonnes of essential food supplies to Gaza on aid flights over three days to offer crucial support to embattled Palestinians during Ramadan. This was part of the Emirates' consistent humanitarian support for Palestinians. Nevertheless, much of the Arab world still faces many challenges. Impoverished Yemen marks Eid today largely under the isolating and autocratic rule of the Houthi militant group. In Palestine, the continuing Israeli occupation and accompanying violence still blights too many lives. Sudan, which is in the throes of a bitter and costly civil war, finds itself at a crossroads as government forces push their opponents from the capital. Such challenges mean that the generosity, empathy and consideration that characterises Eid Al Fitr will be needed for the foreseeable future. Practical support for those in countries that are trying to turn a corner on their difficult past or are struggling with new shocks must remain a feature of Eid celebrations, not just this year but in years to come.
Campaign ME
20-03-2025
- General
- Campaign ME
UNHCR Ramadan campaign sparks humanity, collective action to change lives
UNHCR – the UN Refugee Agency that works to ensure that everybody has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge – has revealed details about its 2025 Ramadan campaign, based on the theme Connected by Humanity, Strengthened by Community, which was born from a pressing reality: millions of displaced families are facing unimaginable hardship. The organisation collaborated with Ogilvy and Friday to produce its flagship Ramadan and Refugee Zakat Fund campaign videos. Its in-house campaign and creative teams led the majority of the campaign's storytelling, content creation and execution. Mona Mahdi, Campaigns Officer at UNHCR MENA, said, 'At a time when global crises continue to escalate and funding shortages threaten the ability to provide life-saving aid, UNHCR's mission remains urgent and clear: to inspire collective action, raise crucial funds and remind the world that even in the most challenging times, we are bound by a shared humanity.' Rollout of the UNHCR Ramadan campaign The UNHCR Ramadan campaign was designed as a digital-first, multi-platform activation with a strong emphasis on engagement, storytelling and impact. It was rolled out in the form of: Social media and digital storytelling : The organisation launched a series of impactful videos, social content and human stories to humanise the crisis and show the tangible impact of donations. : The organisation launched a series of impactful videos, social content and human stories to humanise the crisis and show the tangible impact of donations. Field reports and pieces to camera (PTCs) : UNHCR staff across different operations delivered firsthand updates, bridging the gap between donors and displaced communities. : UNHCR staff across different operations delivered firsthand updates, bridging the gap between donors and displaced communities. Influencer and high-profile supporter collaborations: UNHCR Goodwill Ambassadors and digital influencers played a crucial role in spreading the message, using their platforms to call for support. Raefah Makki, Head of Supporter Engagement Strategy at UNHCR MENA, said, 'We collaborated with Goodwill Ambassadors, high-profile supporters, and digital influencers, including Yusra Mardini, Maya Ghazal, Karen Wazen, Omar Farouq, Mostafa Atef, Maher Zain, Aseel Omran, and Nour Ghandour, among others.' She added, 'Their voices played a crucial role in amplifying the campaign's reach, engaging diverse audiences, and reinforcing our message of solidarity. Many of these individuals have personal connections to the cause, making their advocacy deeply authentic and impactful. Through dedicated content, live engagement, and personal storytelling, they helped us inspire people to give, not just financially, but by standing with displaced families in their time of greatest need.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by UNHCR | Voices #WithRefugees (@voiceswithrefugees) On-ground engagement The organisation also created interactive experiences in malls around Dubai to engage people directly, making the cause visible in high-traffic areas. The organisation also created interactive experiences in malls around Dubai to engage people directly, making the cause visible in high-traffic areas. Corporate and brand partnerships : Businesses joined the UNHCR by integrating donation options in their stores and at online checkouts, matching contributions, and launching cause-driven product initiatives. For instance, Karen Wazen Eyewear donated 100 per cent of proceeds from a limited edition launch to support refugees. : Businesses joined the UNHCR by integrating donation options in their stores and at online checkouts, matching contributions, and launching cause-driven product initiatives. For instance, Karen Wazen Eyewear donated 100 per cent of proceeds from a limited edition launch to support refugees. Gamers and livestream fundraising : UNHCR also engaged gaming communities through live-streamed charity events, leveraging digital spaces where audiences are highly engaged. : UNHCR also engaged gaming communities through live-streamed charity events, leveraging digital spaces where audiences are highly engaged. Media outreach and digital partnerships: The organisation also worked with major media platforms and digital partners to amplify its reach and ensure that the call for support resonated globally. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karen Wazen Collection (@bykarenwazen) Strategic objectives of the campaign The campaign also was activated in more than 26 UNHCR offices worldwide, taking its impact beyond the MENA region. Explaining the strategic thought process behind the campaign, Makki said, 'We focused on three key pillars, including emotional connection through storytelling. urgency and tangible impact, and mobilising communities for collective action. We knew that to drive action, people needed to connect: not just with statistics, but with real human stories. The campaign amplifies the voices of refugees and displaced individuals, sharing their journeys, struggles, and resilience through powerful, firsthand storytelling.' Makki added, 'At a time when donor fatigue and competing causes make fundraising more challenging, we focused on illustrating the direct, immediate impact of every donation. Whether providing cash assistance, shelter, medical aid, or food, we demonstrated how each contribution translates into real, life-changing support. This campaign is a movement, not just a fundraising effort. By leveraging partnerships with media, celebrities and influencers, corporations, and Islamic philnathropy institutions and foundations, we activated communities to take part in whatever way they could: through donations, advocacy, and spreading the message.' At the heart of the campaign is a simple but powerful idea: 'Even when the world feels divided, we are united by our shared responsibility to uplift one another. When communities come together, the impact is extraordinary.' Success metrics for the UNHCR campaign The campaign runs throughout the month of Ramadan, aligning with the values of generosity and compassion. It culminates in showcasing the impact of donations by Eid Al-Adha, emphasising the lasting change made possible through collective support. The success metrics of the campaign were measured based on reach across digital, media, and influencer channels; community participations and the level of engagement from individuals, influencers, and partners, measured through interactions, shares, and advocacy; as well as fundraising impact, in terms of the amount raised and the tangible support provided, whether in the form of shelter, cash assistance, food, medical care, or access to clean water for displaced families. Mahdi said, 'The ultimate measure of success is how many lives we are able to impact through the funds raised. At its core, this campaign is about transforming generosity into action and proving that when we come together, we can make a lasting difference.' She concluded, 'This Ramadan, we wanted to do more than just raise funds — we wanted to reignite a sense of collective humanity in a world where division and hardship often feel overwhelming. By championing the message Connected by Humanity, Strengthened by Community, we reminded people that generosity isn't just about giving; it's about belonging to something greater. Even the smallest act of kindness can ripple outward, changing lives in ways we may never fully see but will always be felt.' Client: UNHCR MENA Agencies: Ogilvy and Friday
Mid East Info
04-03-2025
- General
- Mid East Info
UNHCR Unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report: Nearly US$22 Million Mobilized to Aid Over 872,000 Displaced Individuals
Dubai, UAE – March 3, 2025: UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. ' We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year,' said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. For more information and to access the full 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report, please visit: . -ENDS- About UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global leader in protecting and assisting forcibly displaced communities. Since 1950, UNHCR has provided emergency aid, shelter, food, and water to millions of people worldwide, while working towards long-term solutions to help refugees build a safer and more stable future.
Zawya
04-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
UNHCR unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report
Dubai, UAE – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. " We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year," said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. For more information and to access the full 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report, please visit: About UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global leader in protecting and assisting forcibly displaced communities. Since 1950, UNHCR has provided emergency aid, shelter, food, and water to millions of people worldwide, while working towards long-term solutions to help refugees build a safer and more stable future.
See - Sada Elbalad
03-03-2025
- General
- See - Sada Elbalad
UNHCR Unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report: Nearly US$22 Million Mobilized to Aid Over 872,000 Displaced Individuals
Ahmed Emam UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. "We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year," said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
