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Over 100 LRA captives released, but why?

 
In the last three months, the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) has released 120 long-term captives, mainly women (59) and children (58), in five separate waves in DRC and CAR. This remarkable shift in the LRA’s behaviour raises important questions about the reasons why and the way in which international and local actors should respond. 
 
When asked why they were released, former captives gave various reasons. A common answer was that Kony ordered his commanders to release women and children since they were a burden and made military operations more difficult. Others explained that the LRA needed young and vigorous combatants to carry out operations, so weaker members had to be let go. 
 
Since the LRA may continue to release dependents, it is important that all actors understand their responsibilities and make the most of the resources available. With the support of international donors, local organisations should ensure communities are ready to accept and care for LRA returnees. 
 

Contents:

Regional Security Report, July-Sept 2014 
Hard times for LRA returnees 
Interview: a recent returnee speaks out 
Learning to heal invisible wounds 
“What can we do as women?” 
About The Voice of Peace