Image: United Nations news summary. Today, the International Day is being observed across various countries worldwide through different programs to remember and honor those affected and victimized by terrorism. The United Nations decided in 2017 to designate August 21 as the International Day to honor and support victims and survivors of terrorism. A United Nations General Assembly resolution on June 22, 2023, encouraged member states to pay special attention to protecting the rights of women, children, and victims of sexual and gender-based violence. Kathmandu, 22 August.
Today, various nations globally are commemorating the International Day of Remembrance and Honour for Victims of Terrorism with multiple events. The UN General Assembly in 2017 established August 21 each year to honor and assist victims and survivors of terrorism, ensuring the full enjoyment of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized, in a 2020 report released pursuant to the General Assembly resolution, the importance of strengthening international cooperation to support victims of terrorism. Member states are being urged to play a key role in counterterrorism efforts, preventing violent extremism, promoting international solidarity, and safeguarding the human rights of victims.
Following the sixth review of the strategy in 2018, assistance to terrorism victims has progressed beyond formal solidarity at international, regional, and national levels to actively addressing their rights and needs. The establishment of the ‘Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism’ in 2019 and the adoption of related General Assembly resolutions represent significant steps in this direction.
