Posted on May 5, 2008 - by Frank

Female Child Soldiers: Reintegration. Free Talks

Child Soldiers: Experiences and Reintegration of Girl Soldiers

World-renowned expert on child protection Dr Mike Wessells is visiting New Zealand in early May. He is a professor at Columbia University, an advisor to the United Nations and governments, and an author of several books. His most recent book, published last year, is Child Soldiers: From Violence to Protection.

Dr Wessells is visiting New Zealand in his role as ChildFund’s Senior Child Protection Advisor and sharing his expertise, particularly in emergencies, with international aid and development agencies based in this country.

In countries around the world, Dr Wessells helps to develop community-based, culturally grounded programmes that assist children, families, and communities affected by armed conflict and emergencies.

As part of his visit, Dr Wessells is giving two free public talks at lunchtime in Auckland and Wellington. All are welcome to attend and listen to a very compelling speaker.

Dr Wessells will talk about the experiences of child soldiers, the unique challenges of girls who become soldiers, what happens when they return home, and how aid and development agencies are helping with their rehabilitation.

Auckland
Wednesday 7 May
12.30pm – 1.30pm
Aotea Chapel
370 Queen Street

Wellington
Friday 9 May
12.30pm – 1.30pm
St John’s in the City Hall
Cnr Willis & Dixon Street

The talks are free of charge. If you would like to attend, please register online at www.childfund.org.nz/register or call 0800 223 111 to give us an idea of numbers.

Kiri Carter
Communications Manager
ChildFund New Zealand