African Union Commemorates International Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, Urges Robust Action Against Extremism ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, August 22, 2025 – On the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, the African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, honored the memory of those who have lost their lives to terrorist acts and expressed solidarity with survivors enduring the lasting physical, psychological, and social impacts of terrorism and violent extremism. The Chairperson emphasized that the ongoing suffering of victims underscores the critical need for intensified global and regional efforts to combat terrorism, which continues to devastate communities, destabilize societies, and undermine peace, security, and development across Africa. In a statement released today, Chairperson Youssouf highlighted the African Union’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism through a robust normative framework established under the 1999 Organization of African Unity (OAU) Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and its 2004 Protocol. These instruments reflect the continent’s unified resolve to address the growing threat of terrorism and violent extremism. The Chairperson called on all AU Member States to fully implement these frameworks, stressing their importance in fostering a coordinated and effective response to the scourge of terrorism. The AU’s approach to counterterrorism, as outlined by Youssouf, emphasizes a dual strategy that integrates both military and non-military measures. While acknowledging the necessity of security operations to neutralize immediate threats, the Chairperson advocated for complementary initiatives that promote dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic reintegration to address the root causes of extremism. “Military efforts alone are not enough,” Youssouf stated. “We must invest in fostering inclusive societies, resolving conflicts peacefully, and providing opportunities for socio-economic development to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies.” The Chairperson reaffirmed the AU’s solidarity with victims of terrorism and their families, pledging continued support to Member States in their efforts to eliminate terrorism and build a peaceful, secure, and dignified Africa. The AU’s commitment aligns with the global objectives of the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, established by the United Nations General Assembly to honor victims, promote their rights, and amplify their voices in the global fight against terrorism. A Call to Action The AU’s statement comes at a time when Africa faces persistent threats from terrorist groups operating in regions such as the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and parts of West and Central Africa. These groups have caused widespread displacement, loss of life, and economic disruption, posing significant challenges to the continent’s development agenda, including the AU’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous and peaceful Africa. By leveraging its normative frameworks and advocating for a balanced approach to counterterrorism, the AU seeks to strengthen regional cooperation and international partnerships to address this complex challenge. The Chairperson’s message serves as a clarion call for unity, resilience, and collective action to honor the memory of terrorism’s victims by building a safer and more secure future for all Africans.
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