United Nations: a new initiative to support victims and survivors of terrorism

The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) has launched a new global initiative to support the rights and needs of terrorism victims and survivors. On April 28, 2025, UNOCT inaugurated the Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN), aiming to create a collective body that brings together victims, survivors, and civil society organizations from around the world. This network seeks to provide a safe space for mutual support, resilience building, and engagement as advocates, educators, and peacebuilders.

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, Vladimir Voronkov, expressed solidarity with all victims, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or religion, praising their courage and resilience. VoTAN was created thanks to financial support from Spain, whose Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares Bueno, emphasized the importance of this initiative in allowing victims to connect and support each other.

The launch event concluded with statements from five terrorism victims and victims’ associations. Grace Acan from Uganda underscored the critical importance of collaboration, resilience, and partnership, emphasizing how these alliances can amplify victims’ voices, promote justice, and ensure that their needs are addressed with compassion and urgency. Her final message emphasized the possibility of “transforming pain into purpose, creating a safer and more inclusive world for all”.