Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs, which aim to transition former combatants into civilian life after conflicts, are increasingly recognized as vital tools for peacebuilding. However, these programs often fail to address the unique needs and roles of women in modern conflicts. Despite the growing presence of women in both state and non-state armed groups—where they take on roles ranging from frontline fighters to leaders—DDR initiatives continue to rely on outdated assumptions rooted in 20th-century warfare. This oversight results in inadequate outreach to women, exclusionary eligibility criteria, and reintegration pathways that do not align with their social and economic realities. As a consequence, women are less likely to participate in or benefit from DDR programs, undermining the effectiveness of peace efforts and increasing the likelihood of renewed conflict.
Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights systemic failures in DDR programs to include women, emphasizing the negative consequences of excluding them from peacebuilding efforts. It critiques existing frameworks as outdated and biased toward traditional, male-centric views of conflict and reintegration. The tone is one
