Survivors’ Experiences in Uganda: An Interpretive Literature Synthesis of the Consequences of Terrorist Attacks, Societal Responses and Coping Strategies

The effects of terrorism extend beyond the immediate loss of life, injuries, and material damage caused by a terrorist act. Survivors may experience enduring physical disabilities, psychological distress, social disruption, economic uncertainty, changes in identity, and difficulties obtaining institutional recognition and support. However, studies of terrorism in Uganda have largely focused on national security, counter-terrorism measures, radicalization and perpetrator studies. This article addresses gaps in research on terrorism survivors in Uganda through an interpretive synthesis of the relevant literature about terrorism survivors in the country and international literature related to long-term terrorism survivorship, psychosocial support, resilience and victim recognition. The analysis focuses on three interrelated thematic elements: harm, response and agency. The findings indicate that terrorism survivorship is multifaceted and extends over time. In addition, physical, psychological, social and economic consequences are intertwined and do not occur in isolation. The findings also indicate that institutional responses are inconsistent – emergency aid is usually more visible than rehabilitation, psychosocial support, livelihoods restoration and compensation. Survivors employ varied coping strategies, including reliance on family and community support, religion, counseling, work, friendship networks, avoidance and withdrawal. Crucially, the other way in which survivors show agency is in livelihood recovery, collective organizing, advocacy and demand for recognition. The discussion is organized around four themes: continuing victimization, relational resilience, survivor agency and recognition. Recent longitudinal studies further indicate that the psychological and functional implications of terrorism may take many years to fade, with social support and follow-up playing a part in better recovery. The article concludes that Uganda should move from event-centered to survivor-centered, rights-based and longitudinal approach to counter-terrorism.