Conflict-induced, Transgenerational, Collective Trauma and Aid Effectiveness: An Annotated Bibliography

The complexities of conflict-induced, transgenerational, collective trauma present significant challenges to the effectiveness of international aid, particularly in post-conflict environments. While a substantial body of research exists on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)1 and Mental Health and Psycho-Social Support (MHPSS)2, the intersection between collective trauma and aid effectiveness remains underexplored. This gap is especially pronounced when examining how trauma affects efforts to rebuild societies, establish equitable governance, protect human rights, and foster economic and social development. This annotated bibliography has been compiled to provide a comprehensive overview of existing literature that informs our understanding of these issues, having in mind three (potential) case-studies: Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Ukraine. The selected works explore various dimensions of trauma, governance, and aid effectiveness. They aim to shed light on how long-standing, collective experiences of conflict shape the outcomes of international interventions. Additionally, they aptly portray the development of trauma from its root causes to its effects on both victims and aid workers.

Our research seeks to address an important hypothesis: that collective, transgenerational trauma can significantly impede the impact and sustainability of international aid. This hypothesis emphasizes the importance of considering localized structural and cultural factors in the design and implementation of aid programs and conflict analyses, moving beyond PTSDand MHPSS-informed approaches to encompass broader socio-political dynamics. To explore this hypothesis thoroughly, we undertook a rigorous process of selecting and annotating relevant literature, ensuring that our bibliography provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of how collective trauma affects aid effectiveness. The following section details our approach to compiling and reviewing sources, as well as highlights the key criteria and methodologies employed in our data selection and annotation efforts. Together, the literature confirms our hypotheses with supporting information and possible recommendations.

Suggested Citation 

Dijkzeul D., et al. (2026) “Conflict-induced, Transgenerational, Collective Trauma and Aid Effectiveness: An Annotated Bibliography” IFHV Working Paper, Volume 16, No. 2

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