Iffat Pervaz
On August 21, the world observes the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism. This day is dedicated to honoring the memory of those who have lost their lives to terrorism, supporting survivors, and reinforcing global resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms.
Terrorism continues to be a grave threat worldwide, with 2024 being no exception. According to the latest Global Terrorism Index (GTI), there have been over 29,000 terrorism-related fatalities globally in the past year. This represents a disturbing increase, indicating that the battle against terrorism is far from over.
Regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia have seen the highest levels of terrorist activity. Countries like Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Iraq continue to be among the most affected, accounting for a significant portion of the global fatalities. The economic impact is also immense, with the global cost of terrorism estimated at $60 billion in 2024 alone.
Pakistan remains at the forefront of the global fight against terrorism, having endured significant losses over the past two decades. Since the early 2000s, Pakistan has lost more than 85,000 citizens, including civilians, military personnel, and law enforcement officers, due to terrorist attacks. The economic toll on the country has been staggering, with losses surpassing $130 billion by 2024.
One of the most harrowing incidents in recent memory is the 2014 attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, where 149 people, including 132 children, were killed. This attack marked a turning point in Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, leading to a nationwide crackdown on terrorist organizations.
In 2024, Pakistan continued to face significant challenges in its fight against terrorism. However, through sustained military operations, such as Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad, the country has reclaimed vast areas once under the control of terrorist groups. These operations have significantly reduced the number of terrorist incidents, but the threat remains persistent.
The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is not only a time to honor those who have lost their lives but also a day to stand in solidarity with the survivors. The physical, emotional, and psychological scars left by terrorism are profound and long-lasting. Survivors often struggle with disabilities, trauma, and the loss of loved ones, making it essential to provide them with the support they need to rebuild their lives.
In Pakistan, various initiatives have been launched to support victims of terrorism and their families. The government, along with non-governmental organizations, has implemented programs offering financial compensation, psychological counseling, and social support to help survivors recover and reintegrate into society.
A Call to Action
As we observe this day, it is crucial to recognize that the fight against terrorism requires a comprehensive and unified approach. Military efforts alone are not enough; addressing the structural root causes of terrorism—such as poverty, inequality, and political instability—is vital to preventing future attacks.
On this International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, we honor the memory of those who have been lost, support the survivors, and renew our commitment to a world free from the scourge of terrorism. The sacrifices made by nations like Pakistan remind us of the resilience and strength of the human spirit and the importance of global solidarity in the fight against terrorism.
The Author is a social scientist and pursuing higher studies from the University of Oxford
