Community reintegrating former child soldiers in Northern Uganda: A qualitative study on the road to recovery

Abstract

This study aimed to profile the qualities of a holistic community reintegration program for former child soldiers (FCS) in the Lira region of Northern Uganda. Informants were a convenience sample of 37 FCS (age range 17 to 34, mean age 23.86, SD = 4.715 years; females = 29.73%). FCS completed semi-structured interviews on their current living situations and existing resources. This was aimed at assessing how they were transitioning back into the community and identifying gaps in resources. About 24% of FCS reported feeling unwelcome in their communities, suggesting a need for additional support and resources through the community integration models. Thematic analysis of the data suggests that the FCS would benefit from a holistic community reintegration program with the following qualities: psychosocial support, workforce development training, and job placement. FCS emphasised the need for skills training and employment opportunities over health and wellness; suggesting that mental health support and health care are not sufficient alone for them to successfully reintegrate into the community. FCS community integration policies and practices should prioritise holistic approaches.

Keywords:

• former child soldiers
• international community development
• rehabilitation
• reintegration
• vocational training

Authors’ notes

We would like to acknowledge the students and colleagues who have contributed their ideas, research, and time to the project described in this paper: Ravisara Hataiseree, Megumi Kawaura, Eonkyung Lee, and Yuyao Lin, who in fall 2015 compiled research into the socio economic needs of former child soldiers; Carrie Young, who guided the fall 2015 research efforts; Mariko Hashizume, who conducted the research in fall 2015 and January 2016, including interviews with former child soldiers; JaeHyun Kim, Youngmin Song, Chingis Toregeldin, and Michael Veglucci, who conducted research into vocational training for former child soldiers and conceptualized the farmer community group model in this context; Yasuyuki Tezuka, Katharine Reeves, Sofia Olofsson and Emma Quilligan who participated in developing and conducting the focus group research; Children of Peace in Lira Uganda for facilitating the organization of the focus group research; and Ana Alvarez Vijil for her research and project guidance. Also Liz Rosen, at the College of William and Mary, and Martina Namuddu and Will Tesconi from the Global Livingston Institute who have facilitated ongoing operations for this research initiative.