„On August 21, 2018, the UN commemorated the first ever International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism.
The day was established by way of the UN General Assembly Resolution adopted on December 19, 2017. It is meant to be used to “honour and support the victims and survivors of terrorism and to promote and protect the full enjoyment of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.” As UN Secretary-General, António Guterres said about the idea behind the day:
We must lift up the voices of victims and survivors of terrorist attacks, who consistently call for accountability and results. When we respect the human rights of victims and provide them with support and information, we reduce the lasting damage done by terrorists to individuals, communities and societies.
Indeed, recent years have witnessed an increase in terrorist acts all over the world. Increasingly, terrorist acts are organized and systematic and are perpetrated by terrorist groups that are prominent internationally. Terrorist groups like Daesh in the Middle East and North Africa and Boko Haram in West Africa have become the biggest threat to international peace and security—a threat that states and international institutions have not yet adequately addressed. According to the UN, in 2017, close to three-quarters of all deaths caused by terrorism occurred in five countries only: Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia and Syria. Nonetheless, these atrocities have an adverse effect on global peace and security and the enjoyment of human rights by people in different parts of the world. As António Guterres indicated: “Terrorism is one of the most challenging issues of our time and a serious threat to international peace and security. From Tajikistan to the United Kingdom, from Baghdad to Barcelona, these ruthless attacks have shaken us all to the core. No country can consider itself immune, with almost every nationality in the world falling victim to terrorist attacks.” Indeed, for example, Daesh has claimed responsibility for terror attacks which have occurred outside the regions that it controlled, including in Belgium, France, Germany, the UK, the US and many more. Similarly, Boko Haram has been active outside of Nigeria.“ (…)
First Ever International Day Of Remembrance Of And Tribute To Victims Of Terrorism
