Supporting mental health in post-conflict situations: Examining the intersection of human rights obligations and victim assistance frameworks

Abstract The mental health and psychosocial needs of victims of armed conflict remain inadequately addressed in international law, despite growing recognition of their significance. More than one in five people living in post-conflict settings will develop a mental health condition, yet demand for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) frequently outstrips supply. This article examines the intersection between human rights law and victim assistance regimes in disarmament treaties, exploring how the latter could strengthen international legal and policy responses to post-conflict mental health needs. Though it has conceptual and implementation gaps, Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights provides a doctrinal foundation for mental health care; building on this foundation, victim assistance models include features such as explicit prioritization of MHPSS, practical implementation frameworks, and clearer international assistance obligations. These features could inform the development and implementation of the right to health, offering particularity that, if extended beyond specific weapons victims, has the potential to benefit wider post-conflict populations.