Title:
Reintegration Challenges of Former Girl Child Soldiers: a literature review on eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors:
Vlug, Janet
Year:
2014
PAGE:
vii, 37
Language:
En
Subject:
Gender, Citizenship and Governance
Keywords:
former girl child soldiers, Congo, reintegrate, physical and psychological harm.
Abstract:
Introduction: this thesis explores the social and health-related challenges of former girl child soldiers, as they attempt to reintegrate into society in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methodology: this thesis is a literature review. The geographical scope of this review focuses on eastern DRC. The ecological model of Bronfenbrenner is used in this thesis as an analytical guide on the dynamic between people, environment and social context. Conclusion: this thesis concludes that each societal layer will affect the individuals development and impacts reintegration efforts. Girl child soldiers suffer from long-lasting consequences of physical and psychological harm. The different reactions from their family and community will significantly impact the success of their reintegration into society. Within the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process, complete and exact pitfalls or gaps specifically on girl child soldiers are hard to identify. So far, low attendance of former girl child soldiers (and women in general) has shown that the DDR process might not be the right or the only approach for former girl child soldiers to reintegrate. Therefore a conclusion on this topic is that the ideal method for former girl child soldiers to reintegrate has not yet been found or the proper support needed for girls has not been identified. Recommendation: further research is recommended on girl child soldiers in eastern DRC. Physical and mental health programs in the DDR process should be more specialized and focused on girl child soldiers and their specific needs. Community sensitization campaigns should be of great value in creating a sense of community cohesion and collective responsibility for the returned girl child soldiers. Large-scale educational programs for all girls in the community also would help to address problems of social exclusion and the stigmatization. Greater pressure is needed against perpetrators that violate children’s rights so they would be held accountable and prosecuted under international law. International and regional organizations and all others participating in peace processes should advocate for gender equality in eastern DRC. Public information, training and awareness efforts should be extended to public media outlets and specified for girl soldiers.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Development Policy and Practice
Country:
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Region:
Central Africa
Training:
Master in International Health
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2014 Vlug
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
QhntxKXeyw_20161109094823793.pdf