Analyzing the Intergenerational Effects of Conflict on Survivors and Its Impact on Their Decision-Making and Development A Case Study of Colombia with Rwanda as a Model for Peace and Economic Building.

Abstract This thesis investigates the intergenerational socio-economic and psychological impacts of Colombia’s prolonged armed conflict on survivors and their descendants, while examining the potential applicability of Rwanda’s post-genocide reconciliation and development policies as contextually adaptable models for Colombia. This research is guided by three core questions: (a) What are the socio-economic and psychological consequences of the Colombian conflict for survivors and their descendants? (b) What post-genocide strategies has Rwanda implemented to address comparable challenges? (c) Which elements of Rwanda’s policies can be adapted to Colombia’s context to support reconciliation, peacebuilding, and inclusive development? Employing a qualitative research design, this study draws on semi-structured interviews conducted with survivors and first- and second-generation descendants in Meta and Bogota. Findings indicate persistent patterns of trauma, forced displacement, unemployment, intergenerational poverty, fractured social trust, and a deep sense of loss and nostalgia. Participants emphasized the urgent need for policy interventions including land restitution, expanded access to education, mental health services, and community-based reintegration programs. Through a comparative case study of Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery particularly the use of Gacaca courts, this research underscores the relevance of community driven reconciliation mechanisms. The study contributes to scholarly debates on transitional justice and post-conflict recovery, offering policy recommendations for enhancing Colombia’s existing institutional frameworks.