UNESCO DECISION: Iftar on the list of cultural heritage of humanity

(Patria) - UNESCO has approved the inscription of "iftar" - the evening meal during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan - on the list of cultural heritage of humanity.

At the proposal of Azerbaijan, Iran, Uzbekistan and Turkey, "iftar" is being entered into the domain of "socio-cultural traditions" as "intangible heritage".

This decision was made by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, which has been meeting in Kasane, Botswana since Monday.

"Iftar is observed by Muslim countries at sunset during the month of Ramadan after the fulfillment of all religious and ceremonial rites," UNESCO stated.

As it marks the breaking of the fast, it usually takes the form of a gathering or a meal, strengthening family and community ties and promoting mutual aid, solidarity, and social exchanges, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization stated.

This custom is passed down within families, and children and young people are often entrusted with preparing the dishes for this meal.

In several Muslim countries, "iftar" can also be marked by eating a date or an olive – as in Turkey, with water or tea. The recipes for dishes and cakes for this meal vary greatly from region to region.