B4P webinar: Exploring the intersectionality of business, peace, and human rights: the case of Libya

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9:00 - 10:00 AM ET

This webinar will explore the emerging discussion about the private sector's contributions to peacebuilding and strengthening human rights. Two experts from the United States Institute of Peace will offer insights into the powerful interplay of these themes, beginning with a regional overview of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region followed by a deeper dive into Libya as a case study.

Dr. Christina Bache, Chair of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education, Working Group on Business for Peace and Research Affiliate at Queen's University will kick off the webinar with an overview of the working group's mission and moderate the discussion.

Dr. Elie Abouaoun will provide an overview of the nexus between the private sector and peacebuilding in the MENA region in general, and highlight the various shortcomings, challenges, and opportunities that businesses in the region have in evolving their social corporate responsibility agendas beyond merely charity, towards meaningful local initiatives that have the potential to yield peaceful dividends in the communities where they are engaged.

Nate Wilson will discuss how Libya presents numerous opportunities for businesses, particularly those in the energy sector, to contribute meaningfully to peace outcomes in the country. Despite Libya’s many challenges, it has a young population and the recent political gains in stability create an environment in which the private sector can positively incentivize Libyan actors to consolidate those gains in December elections and beyond. This is also true in the Libyan South, the Fezzan, which has been historically marginalized but is ripe for inclusive development, economic and otherwise.