2026 as the Year of Imam Hussain (a.s)
The Council of European Jamaats announces 2026 as the Year of Imam Hussain (a.s).
The year 2026 holds special as it marks 1400 solar years since the birth of Imam Hussain (a.s), who was born on 8 January 626 CE (Gregorian calendar). This beloved grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) and remains the eternal symbol of truth, justice, sacrifice, and moral courage.
Last year, 2025, was dedicated as the Year of Mulla Asghar, marking 25 years since his death, during which communities reflected on his legacy of scholarship, service, and institution-building. The Council of European Jamaats released multiple materials and held programmes inspired by his legacy, receiving extremely positive and encouraging feedback.
Looking ahead, 2026 honours Imam Hussain (a.s.), a man who changed the course of human history not through conquest, but through sacrifice. His refusal to bow before tyranny—no matter the cost—and his stand at Karbala continue to resonate across generations, offering timeless lessons on standing against oppression, upholding human dignity, and remaining steadfast in faith.
That declaration echoes across fourteen centuries and speaks directly to us today.
By dedicating 2026 as the Year of Imam Hussain (a.s.), the Council of European Jamaats aims for our communities, institutions, and individuals to reflect deeply on what it truly means to live by the principles of Imam Hussain (a.s.) in today’s world—to ask ourselves the uncomfortable questions:
When have I chosen silence over speaking truth?
When have I prioritized comfort over courage?
When have I witnessed injustice and turned away?
Throughout 2026, a range of initiatives, programmes, and activities will be encouraged and developed, focusing on education, youth engagement, service to humanity, and spiritual growth. These initiatives seek to translate the message of Karbala into action— inspiring positive change within ourselves and within society at large.
To our youth: you inherit a world that desperately needs your moral courage. Imam Hussain (a.s.) was young when he made his stand. His message is your inheritance— use it to build a future worthy of his sacrifice.
To our communities: let every programme, every gathering, every initiative be a training ground for the soul. Education that transforms. Service that heals. Spiritual growth that empowers.
To every individual: you carry within you the capacity for extraordinary courage. The question is not whether you have it—the question is whether you will use it.
The Year of Imam Hussain (a.s.) is not only a moment of remembrance, but a call to action—a call to awaken. We look forward to journeying through 2026 united by the enduring message of Imam Hussain (a.s.):
هَیْهَاتَ مِنَّا الذِّلَّة
“Hayhat minna al-dhilla”
Far from us is humiliation.