International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed every year on 21 August, established by the UN General Assembly in 2017 (Resolution 72/165). The day recognizes and honours the victims and survivors of terrorism, while promoting their human rights, dignity, and long-term support needs.
Theme 2025
The 2025 observance (8th edition) falls on Thursday, 21 August 2025, under the theme: “United by Hope: Collective Action for Victims of Terrorism.” A key highlight of 2025 is the launch of Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN), a global peer-led platform to unite victims, amplify their voices, and foster solidarity. Theme:
- Focuses on solidarity, collaboration, and empowerment of victims.
- Encourages collective action at community, national, and international levels.
- Promotes inclusivity, resilience, and peace.
Background
- Proclaimed in 2017 (UNGA Resolution 72/165), the day was created to:
- Honour victims & survivors of terrorism.
- Promote and protect their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
- Stand in solidarity with affected individuals, families, and communities.
- Reinforced by UNGA Resolution A/RES/77/298 (2023), which urges Member States to:
- Develop national comprehensive assistance plans.
- Ensure support especially for women, children, and survivors of sexual & gender-based violence (SGBV).
About Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN)
- A global platform to connect victims & survivors of terrorism.
- Enables exchange of experiences, peer support, and advocacy.
- Empowers victims to transform pain into action.
- VoTAN film (2025): Brings together stories of 12 survivors, showcasing cross-border solidarity and resilience.
Significance
- Terrorism continues to kill, injure, and traumatize thousands worldwide each year.
- Victims often face long-term challenges:
- Physical & psychological trauma.
- Social & economic marginalization.
- Lack of resources for rehabilitation.
- Observance highlights the responsibility of the UN and Member States to provide:
- Long-term support (medical, social, psychological).
- Inclusion of victims’ voices in policymaking.
- Stronger legal protections and recognition.
UN Counter-Terrorism Framework
- UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (2006, adopted by UNGA):
Four pillars → Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Support for Victims. - Victim support emphasized as a central element of counter-terrorism efforts.
Key Facts
- UN Headquarters: New York, USA.
- UN Secretary-General (2025): António Guterres (Portugal).
- UN General Assembly Resolution 72/165: Established the day in 2017.
- UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy: First adopted in 2006, reviewed every 2 years.
- India and Terrorism:
- India has been one of the worst sufferers of terrorism, with state-sponsored cross-border terrorism being a major challenge.
- India is a founding member of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC), established in 2001 after UNSC Resolution 1373 (post-9/11 attacks).
- Related International Day:
- International Day of Peace: 21 September.
- International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief: 22 August.
- Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (UN, 2006) provides a framework for international cooperation to combat terrorism.
- The UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) supports initiatives to assist victims of terrorism globally.