Virtual Dialogues - Historical Trauma and Its Development Implications Across Generations

This virtual dialogue was part of EADI Dialogues and took place online on May 13, 2026. This dialogue explored how historical trauma continues to shape political, economic, and social development across generations. Drawing on perspectives from development studies and political economy, the speakers examined the enduring legacies of colonialism, slavery, violent conflict, and institutional inequality, alongside case studies from Bangladesh and El Salvador. Together, they highlighted the importance of understanding historical trauma to inform more context-sensitive development research and policy. Speakers: Maria Micaela Sviatschi – Princeton University, US Nathan Nunn – Vancouver School of Economics, CA Mustahid Husain – University of Toronto Scarborough, CA Moderator: Peter Taylor – Institute of Development Studies, GB Learn more about EADI's work, membership, events, and opportunities to engage with our global network on our website: www.eadi.org