The consequences of war extend far beyond the battlefield. They remain in the lives of people who have lost loved ones, their homes, their livelihoods, and the places that hold their memories, history, and sense of belonging.
The displacement of more than 120,000 people from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia has profoundly affected both displaced families and host communities. For many displaced people, the loss means not only leaving behind homes built over a lifetime, but also being separated from their cultural heritage, familiar surroundings, and the burial places of their relatives. At the same time, many local families, particularly in Armenia’s border communities, continue to cope with grief, insecurity, and the loss of loved ones during the war.
Recognizing the deep psychological and social consequences of conflict and displacement, Democracy Today (DT), with the support of the Government of Denmark, implements mental health and psychosocial support activities for affected communities. Particular attention is given to women and young people, whose experiences and needs are essential to the recovery and resilience of their communities.
Through psychological workshops, supportive group activities, and forum theatre, DT creates opportunities for participants to express their feelings, share experiences, explore difficult situations, and develop constructive ways of coping with stress and uncertainty. These activities provide supportive spaces where people can feel heard, strengthen their confidence, and recognize that they are not alone in facing the consequences of war.
Forum theatre, in particular, offers an interactive and creative way to explore challenging social situations, encourage empathy, and consider alternative responses to conflict and adversity. By engaging participants in dialogue and collective reflection, it can help strengthen mutual understanding and encourage people to become active participants in their own recovery and in the life of their communities.
For Democracy Today, mental health and psychosocial support is an integral part of human security and sustainable peace. Healing is not only a personal journey; it is also a collective process built on solidarity, dignity, and mutual support. Through this work, DT, with the support of the Government of Denmark, contributes to more resilient and inclusive communities in which displaced people and local residents can move forward together and rebuild hope for the future.
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