August 21st, designated as the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, offers an opportunity to honor those whose lives have been shattered by acts of terror. This day serves not only to commemorate victims but also to underscore the importance of global solidarity in combating this heinous phenomenon and to emphasize the need for practical actions to support victims and survivors.
Terrorism is one of the greatest threats to global security and human rights. Since the beginning of the 20th century, millions of people worldwide have fallen victim to acts of terrorist violence. Iran has experienced this threat in a profound and devastating manner. With over 20,000 victims of terrorism, Iran has one of the highest rates of terrorism-related fatalities in the world. These figures represent the immense suffering endured not only by the victims but also by their families and communities.
The significance of the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism in Iran transcends a mere international observance. This day provides an opportunity to reassess policies and programs that can assist survivors of terrorism. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals must recognize that commemorating victims should not be limited to mere rhetoric. Rather, this occasion should be utilized as an opportunity to provide practical and effective support. Such support can include providing psychological, medical, legal, and social services to survivors and the families of victims. It is particularly noteworthy that many of the terrorist groups that have targeted Iranian citizens over the past four decades have received support from certain Western countries. Legal actions by the Iranian government and even non-governmental legal associations to pursue legal and criminal cases against terrorist groups and even their supporting governments can serve as an effective example of practical support.
The United Nations, as a primary international institution, also plays a significant role in commemorating this day and supporting victims of terrorism. It is important to remember that the designation of this day was made by the Human Rights Council, one of the UN's bodies. Through the adoption of resolutions, the organization of conferences, and educational programs, the UN strives to draw global attention to the needs of victims of terrorism. Among the UN's actions are resolutions 73/305 and 72/165, which specifically address supporting the rights of victims of terrorism, meeting their needs, and assisting member states in providing support to victims of terrorism. These resolutions not only emphasize the need to provide immediate assistance to victims but also highlight the need to create long-term infrastructure for rebuilding their lives.
Alongside the United Nations, non-governmental organizations and civil society play a vital role in supporting victims of terrorism. These organizations provide a variety of services to victims, including legal counseling, psychological support, and vocational training, helping survivors to return to normal life. Furthermore, these organizations can contribute to the international community's understanding of the dimensions and consequences of this phenomenon by conducting research and documenting cases of terrorism, and by limiting terrorists and any official or unofficial support they may receive.
However, empty rhetoric has always been a major challenge in commemorating global events. One of the primary challenges in commemorating the International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is how to move beyond mere slogans and engage in practical and tangible actions to support victims. One solution in this regard is to increase international cooperation and exchange experiences among countries that face the threat of terrorism. This cooperation can include exchanging information, holding conferences and workshops, and developing joint projects to support victims. Additionally, the establishment of international and regional funds to provide the necessary financial resources to support victims of terrorism can be proposed as an effective solution. It should not be forgotten that when talking about joint cooperation between governments, it does not necessarily mean cooperation at the official level between governments as we believe that the non-governmental and civil sectors have more freedom for such cooperation than governments.
Another important action is to raise public awareness about the rights and needs of victims of terrorism. This awareness can be achieved through media campaigns, the production of educational and cultural content, and the use of cyberspace and social networks to disseminate supportive messages and information. Raising public awareness can not only help garner public support for victims but can also increase pressure on governments and international institutions to take more effective action.
Ultimately, it should be noted that supporting victims of terrorism should not be limited to a specific day. This support should be considered an ongoing and continuous process in which all members of the global community play a role. The International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is a reminder that each of us, as a member of the international community, has a duty to support victims of terrorism and strive to create a safer and more just world.
Iran, with a history fraught with the pain and suffering of terrorism, is a prime example of the fact that terrorism is not limited to specific borders or geographies. However, Iran's experience also shows that with solidarity, resistance, and mutual support, these great challenges can be overcome. Commemorating the victims of terrorism in Iran and around the world is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to human principles and human rights and to strive for a future in which no one is a victim of terrorism.