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 in Canada is observed to honor the victims of terrorist attacks worldwide. The day also seeks to express empathy and solidarity to victims' families and survivors. The day is particularly significant to Canada's history as the country has experienced several terrorist attacks, including the 1985 Air India bombing and the Quebec City mosque shooting in 2017. Canada has also been directly affected by global incidents such as the 9/11 attacks in the United States.

The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism was first established in 2017 by the United Nations General Assembly in response to ongoing global terrorist activity. The observance of this day provides an opportunity for people to unite and show support for victims of terrorism, no matter where they may be in the world. It also serves as a call to action for people, governments, and organizations to collaborate to prevent and counter terrorism while promoting many core values of the United Nations, including peace, justice, and human rights. The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism in Canada 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).
• Canada has established robust counterterrorism measures, including intelligence sharing, law enforcement collaboration, and public awareness campaigns.
• Canada has relatively low levels of terrorism compared to many other countries.

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

Top things to do in Canada 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.
• Simply taking a moment of silence to remember and think about the victims of terrorism, their families, and those who help with recovery efforts can also be a meaningful way to observe the day.
• Many communities across Canada may hold vigils or ceremonies to honor those who were affected by acts of terrorism. Keep an eye out for local events or organize one in your area.