In a training centre in Jakarta, a group of dedicated professionals gathered for a transformative Training of Trainers eventconducted by UNODC in partnership with the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) and Australia.
Their mission: to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to support child victims of terrorist networks through effective psychosocial assessment and case management.
A Shared Vision
Facilitated by a Psychosocial Support Specialist working within UNODC’s End Violence Against Children (ENDVAC) Team, this event “Promoting the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Child Victims of Terrorism Networks through Efficient Psychosocial Assessment and Case Management”was a crucial step in Indonesia's efforts to decentralize rehabilitation and reintegration services for children formerly associated with terrorist groups including those affected by the foreign terrorist fighter (FTF) phenomonen.
“Sharing love, offering psychosocial support and believing in children associated with terrorist networks are essential keys to promoting a peaceful society,” says ENDVAC’s Psychosocial Support Specialist. “By nurturing these children, we empower them to grow into positive, contributing adults who champion harmony and resilience within communities.”
The participants, trainers from the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) centres, shared a common vision: to ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Understanding the Needs
Over the course of five intensive days, the trainers delved deep into the complexities of psychosocial assessment and case management. They explored the unique challenges faced by child victims of terrorist groupsand learned how to tailor their approaches to individual needs. From understanding the impact that association with the groups can have on children to navigating family dynamics,every aspect was carefully examined.
A representative from MoSA says that this training reminded professionals that the rehabilitation and reintegration process must go beyond the child, and that the family and community play a crucial role. “Their active involvement is essential in building resilience and supporting the child on their journey toa better future."
Putting Knowledge into Practice
Equipped with new knowledge and practical tools, the trainers left the event ready to make a difference in their communities.
"The training was so captivating that I wish it could goon for weeks,” enthuses one of the participants. “I am now looking forward to sharing what I've learned with psychosocial professionals in my region and hope that many people in Indonesia will receive this knowledge to contribute to peace by taking good care of our children."
They have understood the importance of seeing children as children first and foremost, regardless of their past experiences. With a focus on resilience and empowerment, they were determined to help every child reclaim theirfuture and become an active member of society.
A Collective Effort
The Training of Trainers event was the start of a journey towards positive change.
With the ongoing support of UNODC and other stakeholders, these trainers are now able to support the decentralisation of rehabilitation and reintegration services for children associated with terrorist groups in Indonesia. By empowering local communities and building capacity at the provincial level, they are paving the way for a brighter future for children affected by terrorism.
Danny Wulandari, BNPT Representative, believes that this training underscores Indonesia's commitment to improving decentralised psychosocial support in rehabilitation centres across the country. “The aim is to strengthen local professionals with the skills and knowledge gained from this work,” says Wulandri. "This effort strengthens the commitment of the Indonesian government.”
Indonesia supported the resolution ‘Treatment of children associated with terrorist groups, including children recruited and exploited by the groups’ which the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice(CCPCJ) recommended for adoption during its 33rd session from 13 to 17 May 2024 in Vienna.
“We thank the UNODC and the Australian Government for their partnership in supporting this commitment," Wulandari emphasizes.
Looking Ahead
As they returned to their respective regions, the trainers took with them a renewed sense of purpose and determination,as well as the tools to ensure that these children are not left behind.
Empowering trainers is not just about building skills – it's about inspiring hope and creating a better future.
For further information please contact:
Mersiha Causevic Podzic
Communications Officer
mersiha.causevicpodzic[at]un.org
