Air Commodore Vajira Senadheera\
Introduction
The end of Sri Lanka’s civil conflict in 2009 marked a transformative moment in the country’s history, presenting both challenges and opportunities for post-conflict recovery. Among the most significant challenges was the reintegration of former combatants, particularly members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). (1) This reintegration was a critical element in Sri Lanka’s pursuit of lasting peace and stability. This article offers a firsthand perspective on the country’s rehabilitation program for ex-combatants, drawing from my experience as a leader at the Protective Accommodation and Rehabilitation Centre (PARC) (2) in Trikonamadu, Eastern Sri Lanka.
Researcher Yulia Antonovskaya (3) noted in 2015 that Sri Lanka presents a unique context for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) (4) programs. Unlike many post-conflict scenarios where the United Nations and international organizations lead DDR efforts, Sri Lanka’s case was distinct. The government-maintained control throughout the conflict, achieving a decisive victory, and subsequently launching its DDR program during the final phase of the war. As a result, the program primarily emphasized reintegration, with disarmament and demobilization playing a lesser role.
While academic discussions on post-conflict rehabilitation often focus on theoretical models, firsthand experience offers valuable practical insights. My tenure at PARC provided direct exposure to the complexities of rehabilitation initiatives, highlighting key strategies, successes, and challenges. This article explores those aspects and offers lessons that could inform similar programs worldwide.
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