Integrating Mental Health and Psychosocial Support into new contexts of Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration

The case of ongoing conflict and violent extremism 

Countries experiencing or emerging from situations of protracted armed conflict must deal with, among others, the social and psychological impact of violence. This is true not only for individuals and communities that have been directly exposed to violence, but also for members and associates of armed groups undergoing a transition to civilian life in the framework of a Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process. 

In recent years, the evolution of conflict contexts, increasingly characterized by protracted crises, the multiplication of non-state armed groups, and violent extremism, have further challenged conventional DDR approaches and raised the need to review the criteria for reintegration success, including from a standpoint of psychosocial wellbeing, safety and social cohesion.  In this regard, access to mental health and psychosocial support for former combatants and their families is an integral part of rehabilitation and reintegration assistance, in addition to other forms of support such as education, livelihood, health, and vocational training among others. 

The event will explore the specific contribution that MHPSS can bring to support the effective rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals formerly associated with armed groups and violent extremist organizations, their families and communities of return, to address the consequences of conflict. 

In particular, the event will focus on the potential of community-based approaches to MHPSS  to respond to individual, family and community needs , and to address the consequences of conflict, and promote reconciliation and lasting peace. 

Speakers

• Abiosseh Davis - Head of Global Design, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning, Interpeace
• Mario Nascimento - DDR Policy and Planning Officer/Team leader, United Nations Department of Peace Operations/ Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions/Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Section
• Heide Rieder - Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Officer, International Organization for Migration
• Umulkheir Ali Mohamed - Case Management and GBV Officer, International Organization for Migration

Moderator

• Giacomo Gabbrielli - Senior Programme Coordinator (DDRR), International Organization for Migration, IOM

Interpretation

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Live streaming

All events during Geneva Peace Week will be available on-site and online.

Main organiser

• International Organization for Migration, IOM

Co-Organizers

• Interpeace
• United Nations - Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions – Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Section (OROLSI-DDR)