Every Day, Hundreds Lose Their Lives on the Roads: World Day of Remembrance for Traffic Victims
17 November 2024 – Tragically, in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, at least 300 people die each day due to road traffic accidents. Many others are left with serious injuries or disabilities. This highlights the importance of recognizing the individuals behind these statistics.
Establishing the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in 1993, it became officially recognized by the United Nations in 2005. It is now celebrated every third Sunday in November. This year, the focus is on “that day”—the day an accident changed or ended a victim’s life. Each person affected has a unique story, and their families and friends remember them every day.
The theme for this year’s observance is ‘Remember. Support. Act.’ It urges us to honor those who have been killed or severely injured on the roads, to help those suffering from the aftermath of these crashes, and to take action to prevent future incidents.
According to the 2023 Global Status Report on Road Safety, the Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for 11% of road traffic deaths worldwide, making it the area with the second-highest fatality rate. Alarmingly, nearly 70% of road traffic deaths involve individuals under 45. This issue spans all countries in the region, regardless of their economic status.
The report also reveals that almost half of road deaths involve vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists, while drivers and passengers in cars account for 40% of fatalities.
To address these critical issues, Abu Dhabi Mobility and the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), will host an event to commemorate World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. The event will coincide with the launch of a regional road safety report, highlighting the significant challenges faced in ensuring road safety across the region.
The 2023 Global Status Report serves as a foundation for the Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), aiming for a 50% reduction in road traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. The forthcoming regional report will provide valuable insights into current trends, ongoing challenges, and potential opportunities for enhancing road safety.
This World Day of Remembrance serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize safety on our roads and to support those who have been affected by the tragic consequences of traffic accidents.
