18. Wessells MG. Children and armed conflict: Introduction and overview. peace and conflict

The second approach was a “created space” developed by 20 young mothers, community members, elders, and myself. Using ethnographic methods, the first approach I investigated consisted was “formal or closed spaces,” namely two reintegration programs headed by NGOs. Each approach or space was assessed on how well it enhanced three factors: competent functioning, social inclusion, and financial stability. Hall’s (1994/1999/2004) theory of marginalization and Cornwall and Coelho’s (2007) notion of social spaces were used in order to frame this comparison. This project examines three different approaches to the post-war reintegration of war-affected and formerly abducted young mothers in Northern Uganda, as well as the social, political, and cultural barriers to reintegration. There is a need to create reintegration programs grounded in a critical understanding of marginalization and the barriers these women face at all levels of the socio-ecology. Furthermore, the programs do not involve the young women in decisions that concern them.

Research demonstrates that these programs tend to use deficit-based approaches, essentialize young women as “victims,” and pathologize their experiences.

Reintegration programs were created as a means to improve relationships with the community, help youth process the trauma from the war, and develop the skills necessary for a livelihood. When these young women returned home, they were marginalized by their communities for their participation in the war and having had children out of wedlock. Over 12,000 girls and women were abducted during Uganda’s civil war (1986-2007), and many were forced to be wives.

18. Wessells MG. Children and armed conflict: Introduction and overview. peace and conflict