Integrating ex-combatants in post-conflict societies

Reintegrating ex-combatants in post-war societies is one of the most crucial components of peace-building processes, but at the same time it is not an easy thing to do. The UNDP Human Development Report 2002 stated “Demobilizing combatants and reintegrating them into normal life is one of the most challenging priorities in post-conflict situations.” In this paper, I would like to explore how ex-combatants can find new perspectives and roles in post-war societies, taking the example of Lebanon. I will not talk about policies or practices implemented by governments or international organizations. I will speak about what civil society can do in terms of reintegrating ex-combatants, taking as example our organization “Fighters for Peace”.