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Article

8 Jan 2012

Author:
Jenny Vaughan, Program Officer on Mercy Corps’ Youth & Conflict Management team

Promoting Peace & Protecting Human Rights: Business Operations in Conflict Zones

A large proportion of high-value resources, including oil, coltan, and hardwoods, are found in conflict-affected states, where security is limited and rule of law is weak...Without processes in place to prevent or mitigate negative human rights impacts, business operations may unintentionally violate [human] rights...In spite of the risks faced by both companies and host communities, there are several reasons why policymakers and practitioners interested in promoting both peace and poverty reduction have an interest in helping businesses operate in conflict zones...By conducting business in a manner which protects human rights, companies can become powerful drivers of both peace and development.