THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR THE REHABILITATION AND REINTEGRATION OF CHILDREN IN ARMED CONFLICT

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A NEW INITIATIVE BY UNETCHAC TO PROMOTE REHABILITATION AND REINTEGRATION OF CHILDREN AFFECTED BY ARMED CONFLICT

 

UNETCHAC has launched a new initiative aiming at the creation of an international institution for the rehabilitation and reintegration of children involved in armed conflict. The project stems from the realisation that children involved in armed conflict, in particular the ones who may have committed international crimes, should be supported in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society and in developing a project of life. Rehabilitating children affected by armed conflict is an intricate and long-term process. It involves providing not only physical care but also psychological support, education, vocational training, and possibility to re-enter into the community. It requires specialized knowledge and expertise, a holistic approach, and sustained commitment.

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In calling for the creation of an international institution for the rehabilitation and reintegration of children involved in armed conflict UNETCHAC intends to stress the urgent need for a generalised action by States and the international community to recognise the importance of investing in the rehabilitation of children affected by armed conflict.

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Reintegration and resocialization are parts of a process that demands sensitivity to diverse cultural contexts and norms, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each child’s journey towards healing and reintegration is unique, shaped by individual experiences and the type of communities they return to. Furthermore, for those children who may have committed international crimes, the rehabilitation process takes on an even greater significance. It is an opportunity not only to address the immediate consequences of their actions but also to facilitate genuine remorse and understanding of the impact they have had on others. This acknowledgment is a crucial step towards true reconciliation and a foundation for their reintegration into society. Investing in the rehabilitation of children is an asset that yields immeasurable returns, not only in terms of individual lives transformed but in the broader tapestry of human civilization. It is a commitment to a world where every child, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to contribute positively to the progress and prosperity of our global community..

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To promote the initiative and partner with national and international stakeholders, a Scientific Committee has been created. The Scientific Committee is composed of Laura Guercio (University Cusano, SG UNETCHHAC), Paolina Massidda (Principal Counsel of the Office for Victims ICC, Member of the SC UNETCHAC), Vasilka Sancin (University Ljubljana; Member of the EC UNETCHAC); Selvete Gerxhaliu (Judge at the Constitutional Court of Kosovo)

 

To know more:

 

L. Guercio & P. Massidda, Creating an international institution for the rehabilitation and reintegration of children involved in armed conflict to be published in Globalisation, Cultural Diversity and Human Rights, Springer 2024

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Laura Guercio ‘What does it mean “Justice for Children in Armed Conflict”? The importance of empowering their future through the establishment of an International Institution for Reintegration and Rehabilitation’ to be published in Slovenian Academia Journal, 2024