The Human Shield Hypothesis

The first possible interpretation is military. Bringing the population back to these devastated areas could serve as protection against possible attacks by drones or special forces. According to this logic, civilians would not be considered citizens to be protected, but rather as mere human shields. A brutal exploitation of poverty.

The political deal hypothesis

A second possibility relates to the national situation. While the idea of holding elections is being put forward by some actors, the reappearance of populations in these neighborhoods would give an illusion of stability and normality. This "organized" return could become a strategic tool for political forces seeking to present a semblance of territorial control.

The mission accomplished hypothesis

Finally, a third hypothesis is worth considering: what if the armed groups' objectives had already been achieved? Intimidation, mass displacement, destruction of a social fabric that is inconvenient for certain agendas... Could the "boss" have asked his men to ease the pressure, now convinced that the mission was accomplished?

A constant: the sacrificed population

Behind these assumptions, one certainty remains: once again, it is the population that is paying the highest price. These already displaced, traumatized, and ruined families cannot be brought back to their neighborhoods without a minimum of security, reconstruction, and social guarantees. Yet, none of this exists today.

Peace cannot be built on smoking ruins. Stability cannot be built on fear. And a people cannot be asked to "go home" when that "home" is nothing more than a field of rubble.

This call for return therefore reveals a logic of cynicism: either a military calculation, a political deal, or proof that a goal of domination has been achieved. In any case, it reflects a harsh reality: human life is still and always considered an adjustment variable.

The images make it clear: there is nothing to return to. And as long as the state does not assume its role as guarantor of the security and dignity of its citizens, any call for return will remain a manipulation.

To return to the ruins is to accept the defeat of humanity.

Jean Junior Remy