The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially recognised Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as religious holidays. This recognition was affirmed through an official document following proposals put forth by 30 countries, including Indonesia.
The proposal for religious holidays from Indonesia was presented at the 219th session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris on 26th March 2024. Subsequently, it was unanimously approved and adopted based on the session’s decision.
UNESCO acknowledges the significance of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in Muslim tradition, highlighting values such as self-reflection, kinship, gratitude, selflessness, care, and compassion.
Among the countries advocating for the recognition of these Islamic holidays alongside Indonesia are Algeria, Bangladesh, Colombia, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, State of Palestine, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, Tunisia, Yemen, and more.
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According to a post on the Instagram account of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Paris, France, UNESCO’s recognition means that the organization will not schedule official meetings at its headquarters during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha observance.
Consequently, no events will be held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, during the two days of celebration for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are significant Muslim holidays. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, and is celebrated with a feast. On the other hand, Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Muslims traditionally sacrifice animals during this holiday as a symbol of their willingness to make sacrifices. The interval between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha spans more than two months.
