Today the European Commission marks the 15th European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism – an annual event to commemorate the Madrid bombings of 11 March 2004 which took the lives of 193 EU citizens and injured thousands more.
“Today, we remember all those who have lost their lives or loved ones to terror, irrespective of whether those terrorist attacks took place inside the European Union or beyond its borders. We pay tribute to all those affected by these heinous crimes, families and friends, and commit to stand united in our fight against terrorism.
The scars run deep and while they may fade with time, they will never disappear. We cannot erase those memories but we can do our utmost to help those affected find solace.
EU-wide rules already ensure that victims of terrorists’ attacks have the necessary support as soon as an attack has happened and for as long as they need it. This includes medical, psychological and trauma assistance as well as legal advice to seek justice. The new EU Centre of Expertise for Victims of Terrorism – a hub of expertise, guidance and support – will be set up this year with €1 million already earmarked.
We cannot allow fear to divide us, as this is exactly what the perpetrators seek. The only way we can overcome the challenge of terrorism is by working together, and remembering the values and ties that bind us. This is what the Juncker Commission has been doing for the past 4 years. We have been fighting terrorist propaganda – offline and online, closing information gaps, denying terrorists the means to act and countering radicalisation.
Today we also thank the everyday heroes, first responders working together on the front line to make sure that no victim is left behind. Europe is a safer place because of their work. This is who we are.”
