06 June 2025
Today, Muslims in Ukraine and Around the World Celebrate Qurban Bayram
Today, Muslims in Ukraine and around the world celebrate Qurban Bayram — a day symbolizing sacrifice, spiritual strength, and unwavering faith. For Ukraine’s Muslim community, particularly for the Crimean Tatars, this holiday is significant in the context of eleven years of war, occupation, and political repression.
Ukraine remains steadfast in its commitment to every citizen affected by the temporary occupation or imprisoned in Russian detention facilities as a political prisoner. The Ukrainian government, together with international partners and human rights organizations, continues to pursue the release of all unlawfully detained individuals, including Muslim citizens subjected to persecution in the temporarily occupied territories.
Through diplomatic pressure, sanctions, international human rights mechanisms, and negotiation processes, Ukraine consistently raises the issue of prisoners and hostages as a top priority. The Crimea Platform, as a key international forum, plays a vital role in coordinating global efforts to ensure the de-occupation of Crimea and the protection of the rights of the Crimean Tatar people and the broader Muslim community.
We remember the thousands of Ukrainian Muslims who are unable to celebrate Qurban Bayram with their families this year — many are defending the country on the frontline, others remain in captivity, and some have laid down their lives for Ukraine’s freedom. Their families mark this day in prayer, holding on to faith, hope, and dignity.
In temporarily occupied Crimea, where the Russian Federation systematically violates religious freedoms and suppresses the rights of the indigenous Crimean Tatar people, the Muslim community continues to preserve its identity and engage in peaceful resistance — a living embodiment of the spirit of Qurban Bayram.
The Crimea Platform calls on the international community to remain resolute in defending the rights and freedoms of all Muslims in Ukraine, particularly the Crimean Tatars. We also sincerely thank our global partners for their solidarity and support. Together, we move closer to the day when all Ukrainians, regardless of religion or ethnicity, are free and safely returned home.