Linkages between private sector development, conflict and peace

Examples of the role that the private sector can play in conflict and peace at the macro, meso and micro levels

Abstract

This helpdesk report addresses the following question:

  • What are the linkages between private sector development, conflict and peace in war to peace transitions?

The private sector can both exacerbate drivers of conflict and contribute to peacebuilding in post-conflict states. The report gives examples of the role that the private sector can play in conflict and peace at the macro, meso and micro levels.

There is a relatively small body of literature on the role of the private sector in building peace. Examples of successful interventions are often dated and evaluations lack rigour. Analysis of success factors is also lacking. It is therefore difficult to establish causality between many of the initiatives discussed in this report and improvements in peace and stability. There is very little literature looking at private sector involvement in peacebuilding in post-conflict least developed countries.

K4D helpdesk reports provide summaries of current research, evidence and lessons learned. This report was commissioned by the UK Department for International Development.

Citation

Strachan, A.L. (2017). Linkages between private sector development and peace. K4D Helpdesk Report. Brighton, UK: Institute of Development Studies.

Linkages between private sector development, conflict and peace

Published 1 September 2017