UNODC launches first suite of e-Learning modules to support the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Children, who have been Returned From Conflict Zones

UNODC, under the Global Programme to End Violence against Children, launched  and rolled out a suite of three e-learning modules in Russian language on children associated with terrorist and violent extremist groups.

 

The first three modules were developed based on the comprehensive UNODC Training Package on the treatment of children associated with terrorist and violent extremist groups. The first module introduces the international legal framework and the ten broad principles of practice that guide prevention and response to the phenomenon of children associated with terrorist and violent extremist groups. Modules two and three focus on the planning and implementation of comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration strategies for children affected by the phenomenon.

 The e-learning modules package is meant to continue providing UNODC’ technical and expert support to the governments, civil society and other stakeholders in Central Asia remotely, aiding to their efforts in rehabilitation and reintegration of child returnees.

During the launch event, Mr. Daulet Ryskulov, Head of International Cooperation Department from the Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) highlighted: "We repeatedly discussed this issue with UNODC, and I am happy that it resonated with so many government institutions and non-governmental organizations. (…) The Law Enforcement Academy with the support of UNODC is holding a number of activities where we are discussing issues on rehabilitation and supporting the reintegration of children who have returned from conflict areas, to increase the knowledge and skills set of practitioners in contact with these children."

The launch and roll-out of the three e-learning modules, included three webinars on October 4, November 7 and December 13 related to each of the modules, were embedded in the Central Asian Network for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism CAPVE.org, to bring together professionals from different sectors of the region to protect children from terrorism..

During these webinars, professionals working with child returnees,   discussed practical issues such as the disclosure of information related to  child returnees  to their peers and communities; the importance of tailored and individual rehabilitation and reintegration plans; the involvement of family members and the communities in the processes of rehabilitation and reintegration. Participants identified a short-, mid-, and long-term challenges in planning rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives. They related to the lack of sustainable funding and coordination in communities, the permanence and negative impacts of COVID 19 and distrust and stigma by some community members. 

Ms. Dina Kubayeva, teacher-psychologist, from school #79, Karaganda city of Kazakhstan said: "In good practices, in the context of Kazakhstan, we involve various agencies and Ministries. In other words, we adopt a diverse and multidisciplinary approach, involving from psychologists, social workers to lawyers. I would also highlight the experience of Uzbekistan, creating a Ministry of Makhalla for Community and Family which is a major good practice, focusing on family as a nucleus of society".

The launch and roll-out of the three e-learning modules, including webinars, are a part of UNODC the Global Programme to End Violence against Children funded by the Federal Republic of Germany to protect children from terrorism through the adoption of a multi-sectoral, comprehensive and coordinated approach.

 

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For all inquiries, contact Vasilina Brazhko (Ms.)

Communication and PR Specialist

UNODC in Central Asia

+996775987817 WhatsApp

vasilina.brazhko [at]un.org