Project Description

"Dealing with the effects of past violent conflict to support social healing and peacebuilding in Papua New Guinea” seeks to explore the relationship between violent conflict, trauma, and peacebuilding in two locations in Papua New Guinea (PNG), Hela Province and Bougainville. Generations of exposure to intergroup and interpersonal violence have left deep psychosocial and relational wounds that reshape identities, narratives, and notions of justice. Western, individualised approaches to trauma often overlook the collective, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of healing in Papua New Guinea. Using a systems thinking approach grounded in relational perspectives, this study explores Indigenous understandings of harm and healing practices, and how they shape reconciliation and conflict transformation. Findings will contribute to theory and practice on trauma, justice, and sustainable peace.

Bio

Laura Raicu is a peacebuilding practitioner and researcher with experience supporting locally led peacebuilding initiatives in Papua New Guinea, particularly in Bougainville and Hela Province. Her work focuses on peacebuilding analysis, dialogue facilitation, and supporting capacities for peace. She has a particular interest in exploring the intersections of relational and psychosocial harm, healing, and conflict transformation. She is currently undertaking doctoral research at the University of Melbourne examining Indigenous approaches to social healing and their contribution to conflict resolution in Papua New Guinea.

University of Melbourne

Conciliation Resources

Laura Raicu's LinkedIn Profile