The world is celebrating the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism on Wednesday to honour the survivors of terrorism. On August 21, 2017, the United Nations General Assembly designated this day to allow victims of terrorism to have their needs supported and their rights upheld.

In 2017, the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism was celebrated for the first time, in which voices of victims and survivors were heard. The United Nations also stands with the victims in solidarity and sympathy, as the hatred and division have separated them from global reality. World Humanitarian Day 2019: Date, Theme And Significance of The Day Commemorating Sérgio Vieira de Mello.

History of the Day

Victims of the terrorist act often feel forgotten and neglected after the initial uproar around the attacks fades. Citing this, the global community – registered under the United Nations – came together to help these people heal and live with dignity. Along with the resources to help victims recover and cope with their trauma through long-term multi-dimensional support – including physical, psychological, social and financial – the members of UN initiated steps for victims' assistance.

With the help of Pillar I and IV of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the UN began work to provide resources and mobilise the international community for the needs of victims of terrorism. The sole aim was to stand in solidarity and provide support to victims of terrorist attacks worldwide. Along with this, capacity-building assistance, establishing networks and offering support to civil society organisations working for protecting and respecting the rights of victims were included. After much consideration, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 21 as International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism. This day was first celebrated in 2017.

Significance of the Day

Be it the Middle East, Africa, Europe, United States or India, almost every country is affected by terrorism. Suicide bombings and terror attacks have claimed millions of innocent lives. United Nations – through the outcomes of resolutions of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy review – emphasises that the terrorist-affected victims can cope, heal and recover more rapidly after an attack. Also, the global agency considers the resilience of victims as essential for the social cohesion of society.

The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism allows the victims to tell their compelling stories on how they have coped with their plight. Also, victims share experiences on different ways of emerging stronger, more self-dependent and united against terrorism. To observe this international day, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism organise several events. It includes platforms for victims to share their experiences of resilience against terrorism. Apart from these measures, photo exhibition, documentary film screenings, theatres, street plays and music competitions are organised worldwide. Anti-Terrorism Day 2019: Know All About History And Significance of The Day When Rajiv Gandhi Was Assassinated

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime remains fully engaged with the UN partners to help the affected people through technical assistance and capacity building. Following this, governments can pursue effective action to assist victims and bring terrorists to justice. This International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to The Victims of Terrorism provides a chance to honour the victims of terror attacks.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 21, 2019 07:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).