21 August: International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

Terrorist attacks impact on our values and our way of life.

Terrorist atrocities around the world have driven home the terrible truth that no society, no country remains unscathed or unscarred.

Women and men, girls and boys are among the victims of acts of terrorism, such as hostage-taking, explosives attacks in public places, or aeroplane hijacking.

Too many people continue to lose their lives to terrorism, and families and communities continue to grapple with the aftermath.

The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 72/165 adopted on 19 December 2017, established 21 August as the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism in order 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.

By proclaiming an International Day dedicated to victims, the United Nations General Assembly reaffirmed that the promotion and protection of human rights for all and the rule of law at the national and international levels are essential for preventing and combating terrorism.

On this day of remembrance, the Union Internationale des Avocats remembers and honours all those who have suffered at the hands of terrorists, and it stands united with victims, their families and their friends against all who seek to hurt and divide our societies through hatred and violence.