How Entrepreneurship Promotes Peace and Justice in Post-Conflict Zones

What is it about?

This research examines entrepreneurial ventures in post-conflict settings, focusing on how these initiatives can support the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) - Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Using a theoretical framework of emancipatory entrepreneuring, the study develops four qualitative case studies of ex-combatants who start businesses to create economic opportunities and challenge violence and inequality in their rural communities. The research identifies actor distance and entrepreneurial stage as key dimensions which define a matrix of relationship arrangements that facilitate venture success and peacebuilding. The findings emphasize that specific engagement practices positively influence the relationship between entrepreneurship and peace, rather than business creation alone. Additionally, the study contributes to the theory of emancipatory entrepreneuring by providing formal constructs that enhance understanding of these relationships. The research highlights the potential for entrepreneurial ventures to effectively participate in peacebuilding efforts and advance SDG 16 through everyday activities.

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Photo by Yomex Owo on Unsplash

Photo by Yomex Owo on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study investigates entrepreneurial ventures in post-conflict settings, focusing on how these ventures can contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions. The significance of this research lies in its exploration of the role that private enterprises, particularly those led by ex-combatants, can play in peacebuilding and economic development in challenging contexts. Understanding these dynamics can inform strategies for fostering stability and prosperity in regions transitioning from conflict. Key Takeaways: 1. The research demonstrates that ex-combatant entrepreneurs rely on unique exchange relationships to help build and grow their business ventures. Findings reveal that relationship arrangements, categorized by actor distance and entrepreneurial stage, are crucial for the success of these ventures and their ability to promote peace. 2. The study identifies five specific relationship-building practices that facilitate the growth of entrepreneurial ventures and promote inclusion and institution building, two primary principles of SDG 16. These practices are labeled: extant intimacy, peer sympathies, radical inclusiveness, goodwill building, and classic institutional. 3. This research highlights how relationship building required for business growth promotes ex-combatant reintegration, reconciliation with victims, and economic development in post-conflict zones. Thus, entrepreneurship can help transform ex-combatants into peace agents that help rebuild communities. 4. Finally, the lessons from this study are also applicable to existing firms operating in challenging environments. The private sector can contribute to peacebuilding in post-conflict zones by using the relationship practices identified in this study.