A new approach and a policy focused on dealing with foreign volunteers/fighters returning should be devised. Mechanisms for the identification and classification of returnees should be developed. For non-extremist returnees, a de-securitized approach should be taken. This should also entail a recognition of the returnee’s experience in Ukraine—including their immediate needs upon return, in particular Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) issues. Contact between the returnee and government authorities should be established and maintained. 

Author: Kacper Rekawek, PhD

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