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BMC Public Health
Published in: BMC Public Health 1/2012

Open Access 01-12-2012 | Research article

Reintegration of child soldiers in Burundi: a tracer study

Authors: Mark JD Jordans, Ivan H Komproe, Wietse A Tol, Aline Ndayisaba, Theodora Nisabwe, Brandon A Kohrt

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2012

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Abstract

Background

Substantial attention and resources are aimed at the reintegration of child soldiers, yet rigorous evaluations are rare.

Methods

This tracer study was conducted among former child soldiers (N=452) and never-recruited peers (N=191) who participated in an economic support program in Burundi. Socio-economic outcome indicators were measured retrospectively for the period before receiving support (T1; 2005–06); immediately afterwards (T2; 2006–07); and at present (T3; 2010). Participants also rated present functional impairment and mental health indicators.

Results

Participants reported improvement on all indicators, especially economic opportunity and social integration. At present no difference existed between both groups on any of the outcome indicators. Socio-economic functioning was negatively related with depression- and, health complaints and positively with intervention satisfaction.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates promising reintegration trajectories of former child soldiers after participating in a support program.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Reintegration of child soldiers in Burundi: a tracer study
Authors
Mark JD Jordans
Ivan H Komproe
Wietse A Tol
Aline Ndayisaba
Theodora Nisabwe
Brandon A Kohrt
Publication date
01-12-2012
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2012
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-12-905

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