International Congress of Victims of Terrorism
FAIR represented Northern Ireland's victims at a series of International Congresses where the voice of innocent victims were amplified and issues debated.
The International Centre for Victims of Terrorism of the San Pablo CEU University Foundation is the institution that established the International Congresses of Victims of Terrorism, which were born with a double objective: to be a forum where the voice of the victims could be heard and to help them to have the recognition they deserve, both by society and authorities.
These Conferences have already been held six times: Madrid (2004), Bogotá (2005), Valencia (2006), again in Madrid (2008), Medellín (2009) and Salamanca (2010). They have taken part in them more than 2.500 terror victims from different countries: Argelia, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Congo, France, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Spain, United Kigdom, United States and Uruguay.
Ist International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Madrid)
In 2004, the San Pablo CEU University Foundation and the Foundation for Victims of Terrorism (Spain) organized the first edition of the International Congress on Victims of Terrorism in Madrid. The main objective was to recognize the strength of victims of terrorism, who are often forgotten. This way, they could feel the warmth, respect and affection of the entire society. This first edition was opened by HRH Felipe de Borbón, Prince of Asturias. In this first Congress, victims of terrorism from United States, Israel, Ireland, Colombia, Argelia and Spain had the chance to speak and share their experiences. Politicians, judges and journalists spoke about how important was not to forget the victims of terrorism. The closing lecture was given by Mr. José María Aznar who, by that moment, was President of the Spanish Government.
IInd International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Bogota)
The second edition was held in February 2005 in Bogotá (Colombia). On this occasion, Sergio Arboleda University in Bogotá organised the event. The opening lecture was given by Mr. José María Aznar, and Álvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia gave the closing lecture. Victims of terrorism from Colombia and other Latin American countries, Russia, Spain, Indonesia, Ireland, United States and Israel attended the conferences.
IIIrd International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Valencia)
In February 2006, Cardenal Herrera CEU University in Valencia hosted the III International Congress of Victims of Terrorism. The venue was the Palace of Congresses of the Valencian capital, where more than 700 people registered, including victims of terrorism and attendees. Terror victims from Peru, Russia, United States, Ireland, United Kingdom, Colombia and Spain took part.
TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias opened the third edition of the International Congress on Victims of Terrorism. The closing lecture was given by Mr. José Antonio Alonso, Minister of Interior of Spain. Mr. Francisco Camps, President of the Autonomous Community of Valencia, and Mrs. Rita Barberá, Major of Valencia, also spoke at the closing lecture. During this edition, the attendees had the opportunity to see a photographic exhibition by Miguel Angel Blanco Foundation, which showed the cruelty and the tragic consequences of the terrorist scourge.
IVth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Madrid)
The IVth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism was held at the San Pablo CEU University in Madrid in January 2008. More than 400 victims of terrorism from different countries which have suffered, and still suffer, terrorist attacks (United States, Ireland, Israel, Peru, Uruguay, France, Colombia, Argentina, Holland, Italy and, of course, Spain) attended the event.
Among the participants in the fourth edition were TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, who opened the Congress; Mr. Alvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia; Mr. Fernando Araujo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia; Mrs. Esperanza Aguirre, President of the Community of Madrid; and Mr. Mariano Rajoy, leader of the main opposition party in Spain. During this Conference, the attendees could also see the photographic exhibition of the Miguel Ángel Blanco Foundation.
Vth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Medellin)
With the background of the four editions, in May 2009 took place in Medellín (Colombia) the V International Congress of Victims of Terrorism. It was organised by the Colombian institutions Visible Victims Foundation and Sergio Arboleda University, in collaboration with the International Centre for Victims of Terrorism of the San Pablo CEU Foundation.
TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias attended the Inaugural Ceremony and they were accompanied by Mr. Álvaro Uribe, President of the Republic of Colombia and other authorities. Nearly 1.000 victims of terrorism from different countries, including, Rwanda, the United States, Northern Ireland, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, France, Spain and, of course, Colombia, attended the Conference. The closing lecture was given by Mr. Felipe Calderón, President of México.
VIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Salamanca)
Finally, the Sixth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism was on February 11th – 13th 2010 in Salamanca. Over 400 victims of terrorism from different countries which have suffered or are suffering from this scourge, such as Argentina, Congo, Colombia, United States, France, Ireland, Israel, Italy, United Kigdom, Russia and Spain, took part. Once more, the opening ceremony was given by TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, and Mrs. Arantza Quiroga, President of the Basque Country Parliament gave the closing lecture.
During the events planned for this sixth edition it took place a tribute act, called Salamanca with the victims of terrorism, where the inhabitants had the opportunity to participate directly in the Congress and express their affection and solidarity with victims of terrorism. Thousands of people gave their support to the victims in the Salamanca’s main square.
VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism (Paris)
The French Association of Victims of Terrorism (AfVT.org), member of the European Network of Associations of Victims of Terrorism (NAVT), in partnership with the International Observatory for the Victims of Terrorism (CEU), organized the VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism that recently took place September 15-17, 2011 at the amphitheatre Foch of the Military School of Paris.
This was the first time that the International Congress of Victims of Terrorism took place outside a Spanish speaking country. The VIIth International Congress of Victims of Terrorism in Paris included representation of victims of terrorism from 29 different countries around the world and included victims, civil society actors, political leaders, representatives of various institutions, international experts and journalists.
Comity of Honor
Finally, it is worth highlighting that the six editions of the International Congresses on Victims of Terrorism have had superb Honour Committees, including TRH Prince and Princess of Asturias, the President of the Spanish Government, the President of the Republic of Colombia, the President of the Congress Deputies and Senate of Spain, several Presidents of the Governments from Spain and Colombia, the Ombudsman and regional authorities, such as the Presidents of the Autonomous Communities of Madrid, Valencia, Castilla y León and the Mayors of Madrid, Valencia, Medellín and Salamanca.
Remembering Former Chairman
Remembrance - Harry Bell MBE. Who passed away a year ago. Harry was a dedicated President of FAIR, a victim who lost 5 other members of his family. He had worked tirelessly as Chairman for many years and his dedication to the group saw many results. As a building contractor his knowledge and experience was vital as we secured and renovated and developed our Living Memorial Centre. The building is in many ways a lasting legacy to his time as Chairman.
We are thinking about his family as we remember Harry.
Anniversary Dinner
Celebrating 25 Years of Strength and Resilience: FAIR Dinner at Banbridge
Introduction: In a world that often overlooks the plight of victims and survivors, the FAIR Victims Group has stood as a beacon of hope and support for a quarter of a century. This year marks a remarkable milestone – the 25th Anniversary of the FAIR Victims Group. To celebrate this journey of strength, resilience, and justice, the group organised a special dinner at Banbridge. This event was a poignant and empowering gathering, bringing together survivors, advocates, and allies to commemorate the progress made and to renew the commitment to the ongoing fight for justice.
Reflecting on 25 Years: Founded in 1998, FAIR has been unwavering in its dedication to providing support, understanding, and resources to those who have experienced injustice. Over the past 25 years, the group has not only been a lifeline for victims but has also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the challenges survivors face in their pursuit of justice.
The journey has been marked by triumphs and challenges, but through it all, FAIR has remained steadfast in its mission to advocate for fairness, accountability, integrity, and respect. The anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and acknowledge the collective strength that has fueled the group's impact over the years.
A Night of Celebration at Banbridge: The anniversary dinner at Banbridge promises to be a night filled with reflection, celebration, and unity. Set against the backdrop of this picturesque venue, attendees will have the chance to connect with fellow survivors, share stories, and find solace in the shared experience of overcoming adversity.
The program for the evening includes speeches from key figures within the FAIR Victims Group, highlighting the achievements and milestones reached over the past 25 years. Special guests, including advocates and community leaders, will also share their insights on the importance of supporting victims and survivors in their quest for justice.
The dinner at Banbridge is not just a celebration but a recommitment to the principles that have guided the FAIR Victims Group throughout its existence. It is an acknowledgment of the strength of survivors and a call to action for continued advocacy in the face of ongoing challenges.
Looking Forward: As FAIR enters its next chapter, the anniversary dinner serves as a springboard for the future. With the unwavering support of its members, allies, and the broader community, the group aims to continue its mission of creating a more just and compassionate society.
As we celebrate 25 years, let us not only reflect on the past but also look forward with optimism and determination. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with a united front and a commitment to justice, FAIR will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of survivors and in the broader fight for a fair and equitable society.
Conclusion: The 25th Anniversary dinner at Banbridge is more than a commemoration of the past; it is a celebration of the resilience, strength, and unity that define FAIR and its members. As survivors, advocates, and allies come together to mark this significant milestone, they stand not only as a testament to the progress made but as a beacon of hope for the future. May FAIR continue to shine brightly for the next 25 years and beyond, inspiring change and fostering justice for all.