A people dispossessed: the plight of civilians in areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo affected by the Lord’s Resistance Army

This report analyses the challenge of protecting civilians in the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) affected areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and proposes concrete ways to enhance current efforts. It looks at many different conditions, such as extreme or enforced poverty, the Mbororo problem, distrust and dissatisfaction with the government, etc. that impact reintegration of LRA members into the community. These conditions also affect the general wellbeing and security of any given community

This report forms part of a wider research project that seeks to address shortfalls in understanding of and responses to both civilian protection and the need to reintegrate former members of the LRA into their communities. Both Lancaster’s and Medeiros’ report Back but not home: supporting reintegration of former LRA abductees into civilian life in Congo and South Sudan are summarized in Safe paths home: protecting civilians and supporting reintegration in LRA affected communities.