This thesis examines the experiences of girl child soldiers in Uganda in order to explore the
gender gaps that exist in post-conflict programming and to engender meaningful policy
solutions that target these gaps. This thesis uses a gender lens to analyze the challenges faced by
Ugandan girls and to explore how entrenched gender norms feed into a singular narrative of
conflict – dangerous boys and traumatized girls – that renders particular combatants – and their
unique needs – invisible. Adopting a feminist methodology that prioritizes the importance of
girls’ narratives and self-perceptions, the author argues that girl child soldiers must be
meaningfully included in the design and implementation of programming aimed at serving their
needs. A participatory action research methodology is presented as a promising way forward. It
can help address specific gendered challenges in the post-conflict environment, while also
recognizing and drawing upon the resiliency and strengths of the girl child soldiers themselves.