Psychosocial Resilience and Human Security: Addressing Prolonged Social Trauma in Post-Conflict Liberia

This paper explores the utility of strengthening psychosocial resilience in post-conflict peacebuilding and argues that psychosocial health is a core to human security and a foundational element for effective conflict transformation. The paper presents findings from a trauma-informed community peacebuilding program in post-conflict Liberia that confirm that strengthening the psychosocial resilience of individuals and their communities promotes common understanding and peaceful conflict resolution. Participants report greater emotional control and awareness of their surroundings, increased interest in working with others and practicing nonviolent conflict resolution techniques. The research presents empirical evidence to suggest that building and reinforcing psychosocial skills offers a robust, locally led and effective way to strengthen local conflict resolution and peacebuilding capacity, especially in highly traumatized conflict societies.