21st August: The International Day of Commemoration and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

The International Day of Commemoration and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is celebrated on August 21 every year. It was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2017, with the aim of honoring and paying tribute to all victims of terrorism around the world.

This date is intended to remember all people who have been affected by terrorist acts, whether direct or indirect victims, as well as to recognize the suffering and pain that terrorism inflicts on communities and society at large. The day also provides an opportunity to express solidarity with the victims and their families, as well as to reaffirm the commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

September 11, 2001

The Twin Towers refers to the World Trade Center (WTC), a complex of buildings located in lower Manhattan, New York, that was destroyed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

 On September 11, 2001, Al-Qaeda affiliated terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners. Two of these planes, American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, were intentionally crashed into the North Tower and South Tower of the World Trade Center, respectively, resulting in the devastating destruction of both towers.

The impact of the planes caused large fires in the buildings, weakening their structure. Shortly thereafter, both towers collapsed in a series of catastrophic implosions, killing thousands of people and leaving a deep scar in the heart of New York City and in the history of the United States.

Terrorism is a global scourge that causes human suffering, destruction and division throughout the world. It undermines fundamental human rights, international peace and security and poses a threat to the stability and progress of societies. This day is therefore an occasion to reaffirm the international community’s commitment to combat terrorism, promote justice for victims and ensure that the suffering it has caused is not repeated.

On the International Day of Commemoration and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, various commemorative events and activities are held in different parts of the world to remember the victims and to highlight the importance of preventing and combating terrorism by strengthening international cooperation, respecting human rights and promoting peace and tolerance.