Business of peace: The private sector as a partner in conflict prevention and resolution

This report assesses and provides a framework for understanding both the positive and negative roles that business can play in situations of conflict.

It focuses on mainstream legitimate businesses, especially multinational companies, and outlines:

  • why the private sector can no longer afford to ignore the causes and costs of conflict
  • some of the key factors that determine whether business plays a negative role by creating or exacerbating violent conflict, or a positive role by helping to prevent it or resolve it when it occurs
  • the practical actions that companies can undertake, with other actors, in preventing and resolving conflict and some of the challenges associated with these actions

Drawing on examples from over 30 countries and from a variety of industry sectors, the report concludes with the following key messages: the business imperative for action; the importance of partnership; and the need for leadership.