Challenge 'narrative of hatred' by caring for victims of terrorism: UN chief

UN chief Antonio Guterres has appealed for global support for the victims of terrorism, saying it is a "moral imperative" to protect their rights and amplifying their voices will help to challenge the "narrative of hatred" that terrorism aims to spread.

Recognising the impact of terrorism on the lives of ordinary people worldwide was the focus yesterday to mark the first International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism.

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution last December and proclaimed August 21 as the annual day to honour and support victims and survivors of terrorism.

"Supporting victims and their families is a moral imperative, based on promoting, protecting and respecting their human rights," the UN Secretary General said.

"Caring for victims and survivors and amplifying their voices helps to challenge the narrative of hatred and division that terrorism aims to spread. We need to provide victims with long-term assistance, including financial, legal, medical and psychosocial support," Guterres said.

Terrorism continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security, and Guterres pointed out that the UN, too, is frequently targeted.

He recalled that this week marked the 15th anniversary of the bombing of the organisation's compound in Baghdad in which 22 people were killed, while some peacekeeping operations are under constant threat.

Although more countries are being affected by terrorism, the UN said most victims can be found in just a handful, namely Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia and Syria.

"But after terrorist attacks, we rarely hear about those who were killed and injured; the ordinary women, men, girls and boys, who were going about their daily business when their lives ended or were changed forever," Guterres said.

"We rarely hear about their surviving families, friends and communities, who must learn to live with the burden of terrorism for their entire lives."
The UN chief said the international day therefore serves as a reminder "to stop and listen to the victims and survivors of terrorism, to raise up their voices and recognise the impact terrorism has on their lives."