Date of Award

2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Hicks, Barbara

Keywords

Northern Uganda, Ex-combatants, Reintegration

Area of Concentration

International and Area Studies

Abstract

This study addresses the dilemmas with implementing Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) programs in conflict-ridden communities with limited resources such as in the case of Northern Uganda. The social identity theory considered in the first chapter supplies the foundation to explore whether or not the relationship between the LRA and the Acholi community is creating a separate and permanent identity around those identified as ex-LRA. The second chapter discusses the formulation and implementation of DDR programs since they were first employed as instruments for securing peace and ensuring post-conflict reconstruction. The final chapter applies the principles of the first two chapters in evaluating the successes of the DDR program and the humanitarian intervention in Northern Uganda and whether or not they contribute to the creation of a separate and possibly debilitating identity surrounding the LRA ex-combatants who have been �reintegrated� back into the Acholi community. The conclusion does not provide an answer to whether or not a permanent LRA identity has been created. However, this study does suggest that there are clear tensions between the ex-LRA and the Acholi community that could progress into a new identity if the go unaddressed. This study reveals the social, political, and developmental implications of reintegrating ex-combatants and informs our understanding of the consequences that can arise.

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