What is reintegration?

Socio-economic reintegration is a very challenging and difficult path. Economic structures in post-conflict countries are often weak due to destroyed infrastructure from the armed conflict, which caused economic development to come to a standstill. What is more, some fighters are socially stigmatised because they committed atrocities against the civilian population during the armed conflict. Reintegration is particularly difficult when former fighters have learnt nothing but fighting and do not have any civilian skills or knowledge which might permit them to gain a sustainable income based on a peaceful activity.

This is why first and foremost, further education and training measures must be taken. Furthermore, it is also about physical and psychological health, adaptation to and integration in civilian life, finding a job and generating income as well as gaining recognition and receiving social status.