When Peace Comes: A gender perspective on DDR and post-conflict recovery

When Peace Comes: A gender perspective on DDR and post-conflict recovery

23 Aug. 2012
UN Women investigates the impact of conflict and peace on women and girls.
Produced by Lisa Russell, Governess Films, for UN Women.

U.N. Security Council Resolution 1325

In 2000, the United Nations Security Council formally acknowledged through the creation of Resolution 1325 the changing nature of warfare, in which civilians are increasingly targeted, and women continue to be excluded from participation in peace processes. UNSCR 1325 addresses not only the inordinate impact of war on women, but also the pivotal role women should and do play in conflict management, conflict resolution, and sustainable peace.

DDR

Disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes aim to support the voluntary disarmament and discharge of combatants from armed groups, and to assist them in starting a new life, making a living for themselves, and finding a place in society. Without a good DDR process and the sustainable re-integration of combatants, armed groups can quickly re-group and resume violent activities. Even after a peace process, war-like conditions may continue for many communities as poorly re-integrated ex-combatants continue to depend on violence for survival.