World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
Every year, on the third Sunday of November, the world comes together to remember the millions of lives lost in road traffic crashes. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDoR) was started by Road Peace in 1993. In 2005, the United Nations endorsed it as a global day to be observed every third Sunday in November each year in recognition of road traffic victims and their families’ loss and suffering.
Road traffic crashes are a major global public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.19 million people die each year in road traffic crashes, with millions still suffering non-fatal injuries, often resulting in long-term disability. These statistics reveal a startling truth – road traffic crashes are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide.
The World Day of Remembrance provides a global platform to:
Remember.
Honouring the memory of those who have lost their lives in road traffic crashes. It’s a day to reflect on the human toll of these incidents and to offer support to grieving families.
Support.
Raising Awareness about road safety and the importance of preventing traffic crashes. Promoting safe behaviours, responsible driving, and adequate road infrastructure are key components of this effort.
Act.
Advocating for policy changes and improvements in road safety. Governments, NGOs, and individuals alike use this day to call for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and the development of safer road systems.
Useful Resources
Learn more about the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims and how you can join the commemoration with your organisation and community.
- World Health Organization (WHO): organises an annual global online commemoration. In their website you can also access a series of publications and resources to support the day.
- World Day of Remembrance Foundation: the Foundation was created to support the event. You can find here access to media resources including logos, banners, videos, and social media content. You can also submit and access a list of events supporting the commemoration around the world.
- European Federation of Road Traffic Victims (FEVR): FEVR's network of road victim organisations have commemorated World Day of Remembrance since its inception in 1995, leading to the day's UN status recognition in 2005. FEVR also provides a series of useful media resources.
World Day of Remembrance 2024
Sunday, 17 November 2024
The World Day of Remembrance 2024 will be commemorated on Sunday, 17 November 2024, marked by a series of online and in-person events around the world.
