The first UN Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism will address key issues that include protection, remembrance and recognition, and access to justice, as well as support and assistance.
More than 600 participants are expected to attend, both in-person and online, including survivors, diplomats, experts and representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector.
Owning the narrative
Terrorism can affect everyone, said Vladimir Voronkov, head of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), who delivered the opening remarks.
“The Global Congress is our chance to take away the narrative from terrorists and violent extremists and return it to victims and survivors,” he stated.
Mr. Voronkov outlined a three-pronged approach to scale-up support to victims, starting with putting them first and being mindful of their interests.
He also stressed the need to ensure that victims receive comprehensive support, which was among the messages that emerged from a conference held earlier this year in Málaga, Spain, that examined human rights, civil society and counter-terrorism.
‘Rise to the challenge’
“Going forward, we need to ensure that Member States can meet the physical, medical and psychosocial needs of victims, and their human rights recognized and protected. We need to recognize our obligations in this regard and rise to the challenge,” he said.
Countries should also strengthen commitments at the national level, including through establishing and boosting legislative frameworks that protect and promote the rights of victims.
Greater commitment is also needed at the international level, he added.
“Having recently commemorated the fifth International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, our resolve must continue to be translated into concrete action. Gatherings such as this Congress, continue to galvanize us to do more.”
Solidarity and support
In her keynote address, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed underlined the need to stand with victims and survivors.
“Solidarity and support for victims of terrorism is a moral obligation and a humanitarian and human rights imperative,” she said.
“But let’s be clear: today’s Congress is not only to benefit victims. It is an essential part of our efforts to prevent and end terrorism everywhere. Amplifying the voices and views of victims and survivors is the ultimate demonstration that the terrorists will never prevail.”
The President of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid, also delivered remarks to the gathering.
“It is our duty, not only as members of an international organization, but as fellow human beings, to stand in solidarity with the victims of terrorism. We must raise awareness of their needs, and do our utmost to guarantee the protection, promotion and respect of their rights,” he said.
Victims’ call to action
During the opening ceremony, 10 people from across the world spoke of how their lives have been marred by terrorism.