On the occasion of the eighth International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, a UN expert has issued a strong appeal for enhanced protections for individuals displaced by terrorism and related security operations. Ben Saul, the UN special rapporteur on the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, highlighted the urgent need for UN member states to adhere to their international obligations to safeguard the rights of these vulnerable populations.

In his statement, Saul emphasized, "I urge all States to recommit to the protection of human rights affected by terrorism and counter-terrorism, in line with the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The international community must redouble efforts to assist displaced people, particularly in low-income, conflict-affected States, as among the most disadvantaged and marginalized of all victims."

Saul pointed out that forced displacement not only undermines basic human rights to education and healthcare but also disrupts livelihoods, often occurring in regions ill-equipped to handle the influx of displaced individuals or to provide necessary humanitarian aid. He brought attention to the severe challenges faced by internally displaced victims, including inadequate access to clean water, food, shelter, and education, compounded by a lack of medical resources and necessary legal documentation.

The strain on host communities, Saul noted, is significant, with local pressures, competition for resources, and scant public services exacerbating the situation. These issues have been intensified by global reductions in foreign aid, further straining the capacity to support displaced populations.

Moreover, Saul condemned the misuse of counter-terrorism measures as a pretext for the expulsion of refugees, specifically criticizing the forced return of Afghan refugees. He highlighted this as a breach of the principle of non-refoulement, which protects refugees from return to countries where they face serious threats to their life or freedom.

The UN rapporteur called on governments to commit to their responsibilities towards displaced people as outlined by the United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement and the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa. These responsibilities include preventing displacement, and providing assistance and support during displacement, as well as facilitating return, resettlement, and reintegration.

Globally, regions have been ravaged by mass displacements due to armed conflicts, terrorist activities, and natural disasters, leading to a severe displacement crisis. Organized crime, especially in places like the Sahel, Central America, and Southeast Asia, continues to be a primary driver of displacement, forcing individuals into dire humanitarian conditions. Recent armed attacks in northern Mozambique, which resulted in thousands fleeing, and ongoing violence in Syria, particularly in the city of Suweida, underscore the continuing urgency of the crisis and the critical need for international cooperation and support.