Reconciliation in the Asia-Pacific: A Concluding Review of Ten Case Studies

Abstract

There are enormous challenges when it comes to 'burying the hatchet' or reconciliation, so to speak, and the struggle to move on with life after violence, death and post-traumatic stress has drastically disrupted every aspect of a populace's existence. The impact of conflict and armed violence is clearly distressing and thus cannot be addressed merely through cognitive strategies. Indeed, the notion of forgiveness gives special meaning and importance to the centrality of interpersonal relationships that allow reconciliation and healing. Healing is a significant part of reconciliation-healing between ex-combatants, involving perpetrators and the public, including bystanders, and the numerous people who are the victims. After a violent conflict ceases, hurt persists on all sides of the struggle. Persecution, torture, maiming and killing give rise to intense negative feelings and pain, both psychological and physical. Still, the importance of addressing the emotional aftermath of violent conflict can often be neglected, dismissed, minimised or 'tokenised' in the rush to return to normalcy.