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Business Ethics and Violent Conflict

The business community (both extractive industries i.e. oil, gas, and mining, as well as local business) have a particularly important part to play in areas affected by violent conflict. Associated economic impacts can have a destabilising impact. Local populations are often excluded from discussions and decision-making around the control of natural resources.

The consequent inequitable distribution of wealth can lead to resentment, tensions and often, violence. The business community is often blind to the environment which they work in or the dynamics between their projects and the conflict context.

The results are likely to be negative, both for them and for the local populations affected by their operations. It is in both their interest and in the interest of local stability that they work towards this understanding and adjust their practices accordingly.