Global Agenda Council on Fragile States and Conflict Prevention 2012-2014
Some 1.5 billion people in an estimated 40 countries live in an environment marked by persistent conflict and fragility. Often referred to as “fragile and conflict-affected countries”, they are confronted by a myriad of simultaneous and often overwhelming challenges, including armed conflict or political violence, serious and persistent human rights violations, and threats from organized crime and terrorist networks. Viewed through a different lens, however, today’s fragile states are potentially tomorrow’s emerging markets. More than three-quarters of states classified as “fragile” possess extensive mineral and energy resources and post impressive growth rates. The riches and promise of conflict-affected states must be properly managed if they are to significantly contribute to peace and development. Likewise, lasting peace requires stakeholders to see themselves as partners and to collaborate – especially the private sector, which can contribute enormously towards peace. The links between fragility and violence, and the immense potential buried in conflict-affected states, must be reflected in new approaches and collaboration.
Some 1.5 billion people in an estimated 40 countries live in an environment marked by persistent conflict and fragility. Often referred to as “fragile and conflict-affected countries”, they are confronted by a myriad of simultaneous and often overwhelming challenges, including armed conflict or political violence, serious and persistent human rights violations, and threats from organized crime and terrorist networks. Viewed through a different lens, however, today’s fragile states are potentially tomorrow’s emerging markets. More than three-quarters of states classified as “fragile” possess extensive mineral and energy resources and post impressive growth rates. The riches and promise of conflict-affected states must be properly managed if they are to significantly contribute to peace and development. Likewise, lasting peace requires stakeholders to see themselves as partners and to collaborate – especially the private sector, which can contribute enormously towards peace. The links between fragility and violence, and the immense potential buried in conflict-affected states, must be reflected in new approaches and collaboration.