PKSOI Lessons Learned Report January 2019 | Page 29

DDR:
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Utilize a strategic framework when planning/conducting a DDR intervention in a post-
conflict environment (e.g., UN IDDRS framework).
Key ingredients for a successful DDR program are:
o political will, including commitment and pragmatism, throughout the process
o careful preparation, including participatory methods that incorporate ex-combatants
and assess the economic and social potential of areas of return
o transparent and effective institutions managing delivery of services and de-centralizing
implementation to communities
o timely and adequate financing
o integration with humanitarian and development efforts
DDR needs to be planned with an awareness of future security constructs, personnel
requirements, and training requirements and opportunities. In DDR plans and programs,
the international community and host nation should emphasize the reintegration of former
fighters into society.
Disarmament programs must be realistically matched to conflict settings. This can
include the use of mobile collection units, which have proven to be successful in cases
where a primary centralized site is not sufficient. When disarmament programs are
planned/initiated, ensure that lower-level stakeholders are fully informed and included,
and that steps are taken to synchronize local disarmament actions with the overarching
national-level program.
Demobilization incentives should be attractive, pertinent, and linked to reintegration
strategies.
Key actions in the Disarmament and Demobilization (DD) process include:
o Start DD planning early.
o Tailor the DD strategy to local conditions.
o Include details of DD in the peace agreement.
o Provide credible security guarantees to build confidence in disarmament.
o Maximize host nation ownership in the DD strategy.
o Inform the population to build popular support.
o Aim for inclusivity of all warring parties.
o Include affected nontraditional combatants.
o Ensure accountability to human rights standards through identification.
o Ensure that DD is civilian-led, with technical input and operational support from
international forces.
Reintegration requires understanding and addressing the social and economic needs of
the combatants. Reintegration also requires careful treatment of psychosocial impacts
for child soldiers, women, girls, etc. who were abused during conflict. Ensure inclusive
participation in reintegration: Former combatants and others associated with armed
groups should be part of the process of creating a common vision of community life.
If/when the U.S. is involved in the DDR intervention, designate ministerial advisors from
the Departments of State, Defense, and Justice to work with the HN/executive authority
to help keep the DDR program(s) on track.
Initiate and sustain international and regional efforts aimed at achieving cooperation
among neighboring countries towards attainment of DDR goals/objectives.
6. Author Information
Lead Author: Mr. David Mosinski
While assigned to PKSOI, he was the lead author of 32 publications covering various peace and stability topics,
as well as author of 8 lesson reports and 5 organizational studies. His previous assignments included: Senior
Intelligence Officer at U.S. Army Space & Missile Defense Command, Senior Intelligence Officer at U.S. Army Japan,
Professor at the University of Notre Dame, 319 th Military Intelligence Battalion Commander, XVIII Airborne Corps
Intelligence Plans & Exercises Chief, and Partnership-for-Peace Exercise Program Manager at U.S. Army Europe.
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