In a major step toward improving mental health support for peacekeepers, the United Nations brought together 25 leading psychiatrists and psychologists from around the world for a groundbreaking training on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) documentation.
The five-day programme, held from 13 to 17 October 2025 and hosted by the Government of Denmark, is the first of its kind and aims to ensure fair, accurate, and timely compensation for uniformed personnel who have served in UN peace operations and suffered psychological injuries in the line of duty.
Building on the Comprehensive PTSD Framework for Uniformed Personnel, launched in 2020, the UN has already made significant progress: 603 PTSD claims have been processed, totalling US $6.7 million in compensation. This training takes that commitment further by equipping national experts with the tools to apply the American Medical Association Guides in preparing PTSD claims.
“This training is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to the dignity, healing, and justice of those who have served in some of the most dangerous locations in the world,” said Michael Mulinge Kitivi, Director of the UN’s Uniformed Capabilities Support Division (UCSD).
One participant echoed this sentiment, stating: “Now it’s up to us to continue our commitment to our veterans.”
Participants - nominated by their governments - represented diverse regions and backgrounds, with 40 per cent women, reinforcing the importance of gender inclusion in mental health leadership.
The initiative was delivered by UCSD in collaboration with the Division of Health-Care Management and Occupational Safety and Health and the Capacity Development and Operational Training Service, all in the Department of Operational Support.
Looking ahead, the UN plans to expand this training globally, build sustainable networks of expertise, and strengthen support systems for peacekeepers living with the psychological impacts of service.
The PTSD study report is available here.