Social Reintegration of the Child Involved in Armed Conflict in Mozambique

• NCJ Number: 179687
• Author(s): Miguel A. Mausse
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 38 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Norway Ministry of Justice
• Sale Source: Institute for Security Studies
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa
• Note: From ISS Monograph Series No. 37, April 1999, "Child Soldiers in Southern Africa"

Annotation

This monograph is an analysis and systematic presentation of information and activities, conducted by both the governmental entities and the private sector, that are aimed at the social reintegration of children who were involved in the armed conflict that recently ended in Mozambique.

Abstract

The children discussed in the monograph encompass those involved in the conflict, both directly and indirectly, either as soldiers, spies, or carriers of war equipment, as well as those who were kidnapped or tortured, or became witnesses of barbaric acts. The Mozambican war, which ended in 1992, involved the massacres and kidnapping of civilians and the destruction of the social and economic infrastructures. The intensification of the war in the rural areas forced the populations to seek refuge in the cities. Here they were confronted with unemployment and lack of land to cultivate. The involvement of children in armed actions, kidnappings, constant escapes, disappearance of family members, deaths, and torture impacts children's vulnerable minds and emotions to create psychological, social, and physical trauma over a long period. With the help of various forces from inside and outside the country, governmental entities, nongovernmental organizations, and local communities are helping to return Mozambique to normalcy. The new parliament is slowly promulgating laws, decrees, and political resolutions to structure the country's political life and guide the development of the new democratic state. Local communities are taking responsibility for the care of children affected by the conflict, whether or not these children have surviving families. Community life is the traditional avenue for individuals to seek support within Mozambique culture. In the aftermath of war, the community offers the individual a sense of belonging to a collective that cares for its members. The work of reintegration is multifaceted and is designed to impact education, health, social welfare, and emergency needs. 60 notes and 28 references