This latest brief from UNIDIR's Managing Exits from Armed Conflict project provides a snapshot of the current needs of former associates of Boko Haram as well as those in the communities in which they are settling, in Cameroon, Chad and Nigeria.
The brief highlights the complex challenges these individuals are facing post-exit, including unmet basic needs like food, water and shelter, which can persist years after exit and difficulties in rebuilding livelihoods against a backdrop of climate change and ongoing insecurity. There are persistent gaps in service provision and a lack of gender-sensitive reintegration programming. This report draws from qualitative research conducted across the three countries between February and October 2024. Effectively addressing the needs of those exiting armed groups, and those of the communities into which they are reintegrating, through tailored and gender-sensitive responses is key to advancing an inclusive peace in the region.
Citation: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, "The Current Needs of Former Boko Haram Associates and Their Communities of Return", UNIDIR, Geneva, 2024.