The 16th European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism was on the 11 March 2020. Established to commemorate the Madrid bombings of 11 March 2004, the annual Remembrance Day is devoted to remembering all those who lost their lives or loved ones to terror, irrespective of whether those terrorist attacks took place inside the EU or beyond its borders.

This year’s commemoration, under the title « Growing Stronger Together », brought together victims from all over Europe, as well as their families, associations of victims of terrorism, pupils, emergency services and high-level European representatives, to stand united against terrorism and pay tribute to all EU citizens becoming victims of terrorism worldwide.

The event took place in Paris to coincide with the first national French Day for Victims of Terrorism. Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders, EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator Gilles de Kerchove, the French Minister of Justice, representatives of the EU and Member States attended. Following a moment of silence, victims of terrorism shared personal stories, experiences, as well as their hopes and expectations. Inspiring initiatives supporting victims of terrorism have also been presented, including the European Centre of expertise for victims of terrorism.

The Commission has issued a statement underlining its « commitment to build a Europe that protects and takes special care of victims of heinous acts ».