International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism: Sunday, 21 August 2022

Terrorism poses a direct threat to the security of the individuals, and to international stability and prosperity. It is a persistent global danger that knows no border, nationality or religion, and is a challenge that the international community must tackle together.

Terrorists’ ultimate goal is to undermine our societies and our democratic political systems as well as to generate fear.

Most victims of terrorism are innocent citizens (e.g., unknowing passengers on public transport, concertgoers, people sitting at pavement cafes, passers-by out for a walk, believers brought together by their faith and their deep-seated freedom of conscience) who find themselves at the wrong place and at the wrong time, randomly targeted in brutal attacks. The lives of survivors of attacks, and those of victims’ families, are traumatized. Victims often feel forgotten and neglected once the immediate aftermath of a terrorist attack fades, with profound consequences for them.

The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 72/165 (2017), established 21 August as the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism in order to honor and support the victims and survivors of terrorism and to promote and protect the full enjoyment of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

On this fifth commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, and on all days, UIA stands in solidarity with all those who lost their lives or loved ones to terror.