At the request of four Muslim countries, the UNESCO Committee this week validated the inclusion of Iftar, the Muslim fast-breaking meal during Ramadan, in the prestigious World Intangible Cultural Heritage Register.

The UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee sitting in Botswana on December 6, 2023, approved the inclusion of Iftar as a “sociocultural tradition” and humanity’s intangible heritage. Azerbaijan, Iran, Uzbekistan, and Turkey made the request, which was approved.

With this recognition, the four applicant countries hope to demonstrate how intangible cultural heritage can foster intercultural dialogue while also drawing attention to the variety of traditions associated with Iftar.

Iftar, the meal eaten at sundown during Ramadan to break the fast, is therefore included in the renowned list of intangible global heritage.

According to UNESCO, iftar is “observed by Muslims at sunset during the month of Ramadan, after completion of all religious and ceremonial rites.” These are frequently referred to as “gatherings or meals, strengthening family and community ties.”

According to the organization, it is passed down from generation to generation within families, and children are entrusted with the creation of traditional recipes. Aside from the food aspect, iftar promotes universal ideals like generosity, peace, and tolerance.