New Database Additions  Summary Title Addressing Gender Issues in Demobilization and Reintegration Programs Author Watteville, N. Publication Date May2002 Publisher The World Bank Summary While the role of female ex-combatants varies widely, the women seem to share one characteristic: limited access to benefits when peace and demobilisation come. In addition to female ex-combatants, there are other affected groups neglected during demobilisation, including abducted girls, ex-combatants" families, and women in the receiving or war-torn community itself. Demobilisation and reintegration programmes (DRPs) can have several objectives including reducing military expenditures, or addressing economic and social issues. But how does a gender dimension fit with these objectives? This report explores how to ensure that gender specific needs are identified and addressed in future DRPs and how strategies can be and have been identified that minimise gender discrimination. For example when female ex-combatants failed to take up micro-credit grants provided by ACORD, an ex-female combatant was hired and trained to reach other female ex-combatants. Strategies to improve re-integration include recruiting and training female staff, who are better placed to reach out to female client groups. Gender specialists must also be recruited to ensure that gender-specific issues are targeted and addressed. The report also offers some financial guidance on the cost of instituting a gender-sensitive programme. Complete Document View PostScript Document (pdf)