In collaboration with Brian Ganson of the University of Stellenbosch Business School, CCDP Senior Researcher Achim Wennmann published Business and Conflict in Fragile States: The Case for Pragmatic Solutions as part of the prestigious Adelphi Series of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London.

Large-scale investments in fragile states – in Latin America, Africa, the former Soviet Union and Asia – have increasingly become magnets for conflict that undermines business, development and security. International policy has so far responded to these challenges with regulation, state-building and institutional reform, but with poor and often perverse results. Caught up in old ways of thinking about conflict and fragility, and an age-old fight over whether multinational corporations are good or bad for peaceful development, it leaves business-related conflicts in fragile states to multiply and fester.

Surveying a new strategic landscape of business and conflict, the authors conclude that neither company shareholders nor advocates for peaceful development need, or should, accept the growing cost of business-related conflict in fragile states. Drawing on decades of experience from mainstream conflict prevention and violence reduction efforts, as well as promising company practice, they show that even acute conflict is manageable when dealt with pragmatically, locally and on its own terms. The analysis and conclusions of this book will interest policymakers, business leaders and community advocates alike – all those hoping to mitigate today’s conflicts while helping to reduce fragility and build a firmer foundation for inclusive development.

Praise for the book comes from many different perspectives. Helge Lund, former CEO of both the BG Group and Statoil, said that “leaders of companies operating in fragile states will benefit from this book. It emphasises that business-related conflict and violence are not inevitable. Companies can contribute to ‘win-win’ solutions by investing in systematic and pragmatic solutions at a local level.”

Peter Maurer, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, emphasised how “Ganson and Wennmann raise their heads above the heated melee that often overwhelms discussions on business and conflict. Their analysis sheds clear light on both the problems and the potential of existing approaches to business and conflict issues. Their insight on how to move forward is grounded in experience in, and solid reflection on, conflict mitigation and conflict management practices.”

Nancy Lindborg, President of the United States Institute of Peace added praise, noting: “in a world in which unpredictability and insecurity have become the new normal, Ganson and Wennmann provide a clear-eyed look at the lessons and evidence that can provide a new playbook for advocates, government officials and corporate executives alike who seek to harness the positive role of the private sector and avoid past pitfalls. Peace is possible, and the private sector can be a part of making that happen.”

For more information and to order the book, please see the publisher’s website. The publication’s chapters are also available in PDF from Taylor & Francis Online.