International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is an observance aimed at honouring and remembering those lives lost and communities affected by acts of terror around the world. The day seeks to promote solidarity, compassion and support for victims and survivors, while raising awareness and fostering the resilience of those impacted by terrorism. This observance is important to bolster international collaboration and combat terrorism together.

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly first adopted a resolution to establish the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism in 2017. For New Zealanders, this observance takes on particular significance following the devastating terrorist attack on the Christchurch mosques on March 15, 2019. The memories of the 51 lives lost and countless others injured in the attack are still vivid for many, highlighting the need for communities to stand together against terrorism and promote a future based on unity, awareness, and understanding.

While observing International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, New Zealand pays tribute through acts of commemoration and reflection, such as holding vigils, memorials, and educational events. This day provides an opportunity for the nation to show support for those affected by terrorism, demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, and reaffirm the commitment to combat terrorism in all its manifestations. International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed on August 21 in New Zealand, aligning with the global observance date designated by the UN.

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 the wake of the Christchurch attacks, the New Zealand government took immediate action to strengthen the country's gun laws. Just six days after the attack, military-style semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles were banned to prevent future acts of terrorism.
• The Christchurch attack demonstrated that terrorism could come from any background or ideology. As a result, the New Zealand government and intelligence agencies have increased their efforts to track and monitor extremist groups.

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

Top things to do in NZ 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.
• Pay a visit to memorial sites or plaques dedicated to the victims of terrorist attacks, such as the Christchurch Memorial commemorating the victims of the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings.
• Take some time to learn about the effects of terrorism on individuals and communities and engage in discussions with friends, family, and colleagues about how to support those affected.