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University of Notre Dame

Publication Date

Spring 2009

Program Name

Uganda: Development Studies

Abstract

As the prospect of a peace agreement in northern Uganda becomes more likely, there is no greater time than now to address reconciliation and reintegration of formerly abducted persons (FAPs). Rather than focus on the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and reception centers, however, the study utilized focus group interviews, informal and non-formal interviews and secondary sources to gain a deeper understanding of how the community approaches reconciliation and reintegration. The study takes a critical look at Acholi community’s traditional approaches to justice and reconciliation in order to understand its strength and weaknesses in providing true reconciliation and a positive homecoming to returnees and their community members. Even more, the study aims to look at how FAPs and locals understand notions of peace and justice, and how they propose peace and justice can be realized in their communities. This encompasses an analysis of how individuals believe the prospective return of the key figures in the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) conflict - Kony and his top commanders - should be dealt with in order to acquire peace and justice. Lastly, the study strives to identify potential avenues from which on the grassroots level, communities recognize their power to bring forth true transformation and reconciliation in post-conflict northern Uganda.

Disciplines

Peace and Conflict Studies

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