Dealing with the Past

Participants are able

• to assess the strengths and weaknesses of selected processes of dealing with the past
• to find their own answers to key questions related to dealing the past processes

Violent conflicts lead to numerous injustices and leave scars on a society. These injustices are often degenerating into new patterns of violence seeking justification in the past. A vicious circle.

Dealing with a violent past in a constructive manner is at the core of peacebuilding. It is a precondition to reconciliation. However, there are many different ways – ranging from impunity and general amnesty to national truths commissions and international courts of justice. Such processes invoke questions such as: Why punishments, why amnesty? Is there collective guilt / responsibility? How to deal with collective memory and opposing versions of truth and history? Who is a victim, what is victimisation?

The trainers will offer insights into the processes they have been involved in. But foremost we will seek for answers and foster re-questioning.

Date:

• 27.-31.10.2025 in presence