# Trauma-informed peacebuilding: a systematic mapping review of training programs

## TL;DR

This paper maps existing training programs that help peacebuilders address trauma, finding they are mostly from Western countries and lack evaluation.

## Contribution

The study is the first systematic mapping of trauma-informed peacebuilding training programs, identifying their core components and gaps in accessibility and evaluation.

## Key findings

- Most trauma-informed peacebuilding training programs are led by Western NGOs and lack evaluation.
- Seven core components were identified, including trauma conceptualization, cultural competence, and ethical considerations.
- Training initiatives are fragmented, unevenly distributed, and often not contextually relevant.

## Abstract

The psychosocial consequences of conflict and trauma exposure place a significant burden on individuals, communities, and on the social fabric essential for rebuilding peace. There is growing recognition of the need to integrate trauma-informed approaches into peacebuilding efforts. However, little is known about how practitioners are being equipped for this work, what training programs exist, and what core components they include.

This systematic mapping review aims to systematically map and characterize existing training programs on trauma-informed peacebuilding, specifically examining their core components and implementation modalities. An initial systematic search of bibliographic databases (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed) yielded no relevant results. Therefore, a systematic web search of non-bibliographic material was conducted in line with Cochrane’s guidelines. A total of 2,400 results were screened, and 21 relevant training initiatives were included.

The review identified 15 facilitated and six non-facilitated programs. Training providers were primarily non-governmental organizations based in high-income Western countries, with half of all programs originating in the United States. Thematic analysis of training contents revealed seven core components: (1) defining and conceptualizing trauma, (2) realizing the impact of trauma on peace and peacebuilding efforts, (3) self-care and resilience strategies for peace practitioners, (4) psychosocial support skills to address trauma and foster resilience in communities, (5) integrating trauma-informed practices into programs and organizations, (6) ethical considerations, and (7) cultural competence and contextual awareness.

Despite increasing demand, training efforts in trauma-informed peacebuilding remain fragmented, unevenly distributed, and unevaluated. This review highlights the need for more accessible, contextually relevant, and evidence-informed training initiatives. Recommendations are provided to guide future training development and inform policy and practice aimed at strengthening trauma-informed capacities in peacebuilding.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13031-026-00773-6.