Once victims understand the importance of not seeking revenge, he advises ex-combatants to go back to their communities. Many former rebels make public confessions in churches and mosques. Although people are still coming to terms with their turbulent past, they are showing a willingness to listen and even to forgive. Francis and his colleagues estimate they have helped more than 20,000 people in the Freetown area. However, outside the capital, where rebel forces are still active, Francis has been unable to extend his counselling services.
Priority is given to human rights monitoring, reporting, advocacy and training.
MORE about the UN's work to protect human rights and about UN Volunteers. Go to the links next to the photo of Sierra Leone amputees acting out their traumatic experiences.