Local Sourcing in Peacekeeping: A Case Study of Swedish Military Sourcing

Abstract

This case study explores the Swedish armed forces’ sourcing from local suppliers in the area of the peacekeeping operation in Liberia. The chapter discusses why, what, and how the Swedish armed forces develop local sourcing. For the study, a theoretical framework was developed with an industrial network perspective based on three cornerstones: supplier buyer relation development, internationalisation, and finally, souring and business development in a war-torn country. The results of the study show that both implicit and explicit reasons to source locally exist. Every operation is unique, and therefore the sourcing needs to be tailored for each operation. Local sourcing was developed in the country based on existing needs and when opportunities arise. Theoretically, new insights of differences between business relations in military operations and normal business to business relations were gained. Practically, this study illustrates the importance to develop and diversify sourcing in international operations.