How do countries heal after war? What happens when weapons are laid down, armed groups are disbanded, and combatants must return to civilian life?
This course takes you inside one of the most complex challenges of peacebuilding: the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) of ex-combatants. Drawing on global research, real-world case studies, and practical lessons from the field, you will gain a critical understanding of how DDR programmes work—and why they sometimes fail.
You’ll examine:
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The different models of DDR, from targeted to community-focused approaches.
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The lived realities of male, female, and child combatants as they attempt to reintegrate.
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The risks of re-recruitment into new armed groups or criminal networks.
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The crucial role of local communities, international organisations, and policy choices in shaping outcomes.
With a strong focus on gender and age, the course highlights the unique experiences of women, girls, and child soldiers. You will also grapple with the concept of peace itself—moving beyond simply the absence of war to consider what genuine, sustainable peace looks like in fragile societies.
Led by Dr Sukanya Podder, a leading expert in post-war reconstruction and peacebuilding, this course blends theory with practice. Learners benefit from insights grounded in fieldwork across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, as well as cutting-edge academic research published in leading journals.
By the end of the course, you will be able to analyse DDR programmes critically, reflect on your own perspectives about peace and reintegration, and apply lessons learned to policy and practice in conflict-affected contexts.
Whether you are a student exploring peace and conflict studies, a professional working in humanitarian, development, or security sectors, or someone passionate about how societies rebuild after violence, this course offers you a powerful lens for understanding the path from war to peace.
