Introduction

Last Updated: February 4, 2009

This introduction provides an overview of psycho-social recovery issues in post-conflict peacebuilding contexts, as discussed and conceptualized on this portal

The first section addresses the origins and meanings of the terms 'recovery' and 'psychosocial.' It also explains why the title psycho-social recovery was chosen as a thematic area of the Peacebuiding Initiative portal, and the elements that are included in it.

The second section examines how framing part of peacebuilding processes in terms of psycho-social recovery broadens conventional perspectives on peacebuilding. Such a perspective supports looking at the wider network of relationships, structures and belief systems that support peace. Through examination of these intangible dimensions of peacebuilding, opportunities for transformation of the foundations of conflict and post-conflict societies are presented. This process also directs attention back to the persons and communities strengths and resources, including their capacities of resilience.

The third section expands an understanding of these dimensions by briefly presenting the five sub-topics of the Psycho-social Recovery thematic area:

The last section briefly presents five overarching debates on psycho-social recovery, addressed in greater detail and with some variation in each of the psycho-social recovery sub-topics:

  • The underestimation of ongoing change in the societies concerned;
  • Micro vs. macro perspectives;
  • The respect for local resources and the need to empower local actors;
  • The role of the state and political actors;
  • A knowledge gap;

The news, reports, and analyses herein are selected due to there relevance to issues of peacebuilding, or their significance to policymakers and practitioners. The content prepared by HPCR International is meant to summarize main points of the current debates and does not necessarily reflect the views of HPCR International or the Program of Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research. In addition, HPCR International and contributing partners are not responsible for the content of external publications and internet sites linked to this portal.