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

BACKGROUND: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. DISCUSSION: 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.