Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration

Presented by the Center for Stabilization and Reconstruction Studies
Co-sponsored by The Initiative for Inclusive Security, the International Organization for Migration and Save the Children

March 30 - April 2, 2008
Monterey, California

Introduction:
At the end of conflict, nations are physically and psychologically war-torn.  As they struggle to reconstruct their societies in devastated post-conflict environments, nations (and the international community) find that successful DDR programs facilitate, according to the World Bank, “effective transitions from war to peace.”  However, experience indicates that successful DDR programs are very difficult to design and implement because:  political conflict often persists throughout the DDR program and overall peace process; and, the technical design of the typical DDR program is narrow in its approach.

Topical Focus:
The processing of male ex-combatants has been the focus of most DDR programs and also the focus of most improvement efforts; however, dealing with the broader range of those who must be processed has largely been ignored by the international community.  For DDR programs to be more successful, they must be expanded to include the full spectrum of actors needed to ensure security, stability and prosperity in a post-conflict society.  Taking this into account, this course covered best practices and lessons learned from past DDR programs, and explore ways to apply them to all beneficiaries of the DDR process.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the workshop, the participants:

• Improved their understanding of how to design and implement DDR programs.
• Improved their understanding of the role that women and children play in DDR programs.
• Expanded their professional network among the other communities involved in DDR activities.

Methodology:
The workshop consisted of a series of panel presentations, plenary discussions, group work and role-playing exercises to meet the learning objectives.  Additionally, a reception, group meals and a local outing supported the networking objective.

Date/Location: 
The workshop was conducted March 30 - April 2, 2008.  The event will take place at a local hotel in Monterey, CA, exact location to be announced.

Outputs: 

• The workshop itself (with its networking opportunities, Subject Matter Expert presentations, plenary discussions, group exercises, etc.) was the main output.
• A CD was produced that includes the SME and working group presentations, participant bios, contact info, reference materials, etc.
• A written report will be published. 

Contacts:
Nick Tomb, Program Coordinator, Tel: (831) 656-1829, Fax: (831) 656-3103, email: ntomb@nps.edu.

John Christiansen, Program Coordinator, Tel: (831) 656-1829, Fax: (831) 656-3103, email: jfchrist@nps.edu.