International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is a global observance initiated by the United Nations, focusing on honoring and supporting the countless victims and survivors of terrorism around the world. The aim of this day is to provide a platform for raising awareness about the plight of the individuals who face long-lasting trauma resulting from the devastating experiences they have endured.

In Australia, the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is marked by various activities and events aimed at raising awareness, empathizing with the victims, and reaffirming the nation's commitment to counter-terrorism. These can include commemorations, panel discussions, and exhibitions, inviting the broader public to engage and participate. The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed annually on August 21st.

Facts about Victims of Terrorism

• According to ourworldindata.org, 95% of the deaths from terrorism in 2017 occurred in the Middle East, Africa, or South Asia.
• Over the past decade, terrorists killed an average of 26,000 people worldwide each year.
• There are both direct victims (those who are physically hurt or killed) and indirect victims (those traumatized by the event such as witnesses or family members of the victims).
• In Sydney, gunman Man Haron Monis took 18 hostages in a Lindt chocolate café. The siege ended with the death of Monis, along with two hostages, Katrina Dawson and Tori Johnson.
• The primary source of terrorism threats in Australia is identified as Islamist extremism, with the majority of attacks being carried out or inspired by individuals affiliated with or inspired by jihadist groups such as ISIS or Al-Qaeda.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Watch the UN's International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism video. It features survivors of terrorism speaking about remembrance on their own terms. They also share their individual journeys and experiences.
• Browse the UN's victim support portal. It is dedicated to the victims of terrorist attacks.
• You can visit local memorial sites dedicated to the victims of terrorism, such as the Bali Bombings Memorial in Coogee (New South Wales) and Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall Memorial (Victoria).
• Allocate some time throughout the day for a moment of silence to remember the victims and their families.