The Business of Reconciliation: Entrepreneurship and Commercial Activity in Post-Conflict Rwanda

Conflict-ridden environments are, by definition, desperately short of peace and stability. When hostilities end, re-establishing peace, a rule of law and some degree of political stability are key goals. A related goal in post-conflict environments, particularly in situations where the conflict were domestic – such as a civil war or insurgencies – is reconciling the previously warring factions, who may need to live in close proximity to each other once the violence ends.

In post-conflict Rwanda, trade and enterprise are leading to increased levels of co-operation among former enemies. Economic interaction is providing a cost-effective alternative to state-led reconciliation programmes as a mechanism for justice and healing. Governments seeking to provide effective transitional justice and reconciliation should therefore facilitate private-sector efforts by actively working to improve the institutional environment for doing business.

Citation (Chicago-Style)

Boudreaux, Karol. "The Business of Reconciliation: Entrepreneurship and Commercial Activity in Post-Conflict Rwanda." Economic Affairs 27 (2)(2007):6-13.