The Global Terrorism Index’s 2023 report confirmed that terrorist attacks became more lethal in the previous year. The Sahel region in Sub-Saharan Africa has now emerged as a new epicenter of terrorism, causing more terror-related deaths in 2022 than South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa combined.
Coinciding with the international commemoration and honor of terrorism victims, the Global Terrorism Index revealed a 50% increase in deaths due to militant actions in Africa last year. Furthermore, operations in the region have surged by more than 2000% over the past 15 years.
The most lethal terrorist groups in 2022 were identified as ISIS and its affiliates, followed by Al-Shabaab, the Baluchistan Liberation Army, and the Nusra Front for Islam.
In a related context, the “Voice of America” report mentioned that recent months saw a surge in terror attacks in Kenya, with no fewer than 30 security personnel killed in the coastal and northeastern parts of the country due to Al-Shabaab ambushes. The Kenyan government affirmed its intent to intensify patrols in areas affected by Al-Shabaab and other factions.
The report quoted the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, praising the exceptional efforts of victims and survivors determined to share their experiences to induce change.
Vladimir Voronkov, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, indicated that the agency is launching a project encompassing stories from terrorism victims and survivors worldwide.
He stated, “The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism is initiating a legacy project and a social media documentary exhibit, showcasing how victims and survivors are creating a positive legacy in the wake of terrorism. I encourage all of you to visit the project’s exhibition and aid in amplifying the legacy of the victims and survivors.”
