Overview and significance of the National Day of Remembrance
On March 11, 2026, Germany marks the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism for the fifth time. Established by a federal government decision on February 16, 2022, this day honors victims of terrorist violence, supports their families and survivors, and expresses national solidarity. The National Day of Remembrance connects to the broader European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, observed annually since 2005, and underscores the importance of collective memory.
Why remembrance matters
Remembrance serves several purposes: it acknowledges the suffering of victims and their loved ones, preserves the memory of lives affected, and reinforces social cohesion. Remembering is also a practical step toward prevention by promoting awareness, resilience, and support systems that reduce the risk of radicalization and violent acts.
- Honor victims and survivors
- Show solidarity with affected families
- Promote prevention and deradicalization
- Strengthen public safety and emergency response
This day highlights key themes such as prevention, deradicalization, public safety, and long-term support for those affected. It is a time for communities, institutions, and individuals to reflect on the human cost of terror and to reaffirm commitments to an open, humane society that resists hate and extremism.
Central government commemoration on March 11, 2026
The central federal commemoration will take place from 14:00 to 15:00 at the BOLLE-Festsäle in Berlin. The program brings together survivors, first responders, public officials and civil society to remember victims and to discuss resilience, care and prevention measures.
Program highlights
- Welcome and opening remarks by Federal Minister Dr. Stefanie Hubig
- Screening of a film with interviews from people affected by terrorist violence
- Panel discussion with first responders, moderated by Nathalie Schopp
- Closing remarks by Roland Weber
- Moment of silence and musical reflection
The event is designed to be accessible and inclusive. It features filmed interviews with affected people, a panel discussion with first responders, moments for quiet reflection, and musical accompaniment. A livestream with sign language interpretation will be provided for those who cannot attend in person.
Public measures: mourning flags and official observance
The Federal Ministry of the Interior has announced mourning flagging on public buildings nationwide. Official flagging on half-mast is part of the formal observance and is applied at federal, state and local levels to honor the victims of terrorist attacks.
What public flagging symbolizes
Lowering flags to half-mast is a public sign of mourning and respect. It creates a shared visual reminder of the lives lost and the need for collective responsibility to prevent further violence and to protect communities.
Examples of affected public sites include county halls, municipal buildings and state parliaments, which will observe mourning flagging to visibly mark the day of remembrance and solidarity.
Main themes: prevention, deradicalization and long-term support
The National Day of Remembrance emphasizes action as well as memory. Key policy and community themes include prevention of violent radicalization, deradicalization programs, threat detection and response, and sustained psychosocial and legal support for victims and survivors.
Support for victims and families
Long-term care for those affected is essential. Practical support ranges from trauma-informed psychological care to legal assistance and community-based services that help survivors and families rebuild their lives. Society has a role in ensuring these services are available and accessible.
- Access to trauma-informed counselling and mental health care
- Practical and legal assistance for survivors and relatives
- Community support networks and peer groups
- Education and prevention programs addressing radicalization
How to observe and participate locally
Individuals and communities can take part in the Day of Remembrance in respectful, meaningful ways. Local commemorations, quiet reflection and acts of solidarity help keep victims and survivors at the center of public attention.
Practical ideas for participation
- Attend or organise a local remembrance event or vigil
- Observe a minute of silence at 14:00 or at a locally chosen time
- Lower flags at community buildings where appropriate
- Support local victim assistance organisations and volunteer networks
- Promote respectful dialogue that counters hate and misinformation
Messages from leaders and the meaning for society
Political and civic leaders emphasize that remembrance is intertwined with commitment. Landtag President Dr. Gunnar Schellenberger stated: “Erinnerung heißt auch, gemeinsam für den Zusammenhalt, Menschlichkeit und eine offene Gesellschaft einzustehen.” This highlights that remembering victims also means standing together for cohesion, humanity and an open society.
Concluding reflection
On March 11, 2026, take time to remember the victims of terrorism and to consider how you, your community and public institutions can contribute to prevention, care and resilience. Collective remembrance strengthens our commitment to protect human dignity and to stand together against violence and intolerance.
Across communities, the National Day of Remembrance calls for solidarity against hate, extremism and terrorism. It is a reminder that protecting democratic values, supporting survivors and investing in prevention and deradicalization are essential for a safer, kinder society.
