Dealing with the Past

Who can register for this course?

This course is designed for professionals, practitioners, and volunteers working in peacebuilding, trauma work, transitional justice, human rights, or community development who want to deepen their understanding of Dealing with the Past (DwP). It is also suitable for individuals engaged in religious/spiritual community, civil society, or grassroots initiatives addressing histories of violence and injustice.

Depending on methods and topic of the training, we limit the number of available spaces to a manageable size (a maximum of 20 participants). Register early to reserve your place!

Content

This seven-week training offers a focused introduction to Dealing with the Past (DwP) as a vital component of conflict transformation, collective memory, and trauma work. It combines theoretical foundations with practical tools. Participants will attend one live session per week (2 hours) and engage in self-paced learning activities. Key topics include: an introduction and conceptualization of Dealing with the Past and conflict transformation; approaches to violence; the role of memory and narratives in peacebuilding; trauma and trauma work; grassroots initiatives and civil society contributions; addressing colonial legacies in conflict transformation; and reflection and application to participants’ own contexts.  

The training emphasizes participatory learning and intercultural dialogue, creating space for diverse perspectives and experiences. It includes case studies, group discussions, storytelling exercises, and project work to support the application of knowledge to real-world situations. By the end of the course, participants will have expanded their knowledge and skills and will be better prepared to foster individual and social transformation in their communities and professional contexts.

Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of key international norms and conceptual frameworks related to Dealing with the Past (DwP) and recognize the impact of colonial legacies on contemporary conflicts
• Identify the influence of collective memory and narratives on conflict dynamics and peacebuilding efforts.
• Understand (collective) trauma and its consequences in Dealing with the Past, 
• Identify their strengths and challenges in different contexts.
• Develop strategies for integrating DwP methodologies into professional practice or community initiatives.

Key Concepts:

The following concepts are central to the training:

• Dealing with the Past (DwP)
• Violence and consequences of violence
• (Collective) Memory and Trauma work
• Colonial Legacies and Decolonialisation
• Conflict Transformation

Methodology

This training follows a participatory and experiential learning approach, combining conceptual frameworks with practical tools. Trainer-led insights guide the process, while peer learning, group discussions, and intercultural exchange are equally emphasized. A dynamic mix of live sessions, self-paced study, and interactive activities encourages reflection and collaboration.

Interactive methods and problem-transforming exercises help participants connect theory to their lived experiences. A respectful and inclusive learning environment is fostered, where all voices are valued. Self-learning components, including reflection exercises and project-based tasks, support the practical application of new knowledge in participants’ own contexts.

In the course, participants use a variety of tools, including a digital learning platform, a video conferencing tool, and an online whiteboard. Participants should therefore have a good internet connection (1 Mbit down/upload or better). A headset is highly recommended.

Workload

Deliverables:

• Regular attendance and active participation in the live sessions
• Preparation and working on the materials provided in the self-paced learning
• Contribution to the participant pocketbook called "Dealing with the Past World Tour"

After a successful participation, participants receive a certificate and become part of our alumni network. 

Total expected weekly hours: 5 to 6 hours per week.