In light of the experiences of the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, the international community is increasingly aware of issues around the negative impacts of sexual and other violence during war and conflict, as reflected in widespread support for the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. An increasing need for trauma and PTSD support services for former soldiers in recent years has exposed the lack of trained professionals in this area. This project draws upon recommendations from extensive research conducted by SPF in a variety of different regions to provide the international community with insights on psychological support services to counter violence and trauma associated with conflict. SPF will also investigate victim survivor support and psychosocial support services through the gender lens, with a view to making a meaningful contribution to policy formulation and international cooperation in this area.

Maho Nakayama