DDR?

While DDR is an essential component of a peace process, the root causes of a conflict need to be recognised and addressed before an armed group will hand over its weapons.  DDR must be part of a wider peacebuilding strategy.  DDR is also a two-way process.  Rebel forces need to disarm but governments also need to conduct serious security sector reform (SSR). For example, the Philippines Government cannot expect the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to hand over its arms while it is at the same time distributing guns to civilians.   

 

DDR processes differ according to the conflict scenario.  For example, an amnesty is unlikely to persuade a politically motivated group, such as MILF, to dismantle. Given its complexity, it is wise to start discussing DDR at an early stage of the peace talks, even if substantive agreements on the issue are left until the end.