Abstract
This chapter presents a review of the literature on business for peace to provide an evidence-based, in-depth analysis of the subject. This review suggests there is a gap in understanding the influence of leadership in business's commitment to advance peace. To address this gap, the constructs of ethical leadership are examined in an attempt to extend the discussion of business for peace by integrating leadership theory. The paradox of the role of business in advancing peace as both a conflict enabler and peace advocate is acknowledged with the recommendation that ethical leaders engage in inclusive problem solving through full spectrum thinking. The purpose of this chapter is to demonstrate that responsibility to promote business as a peace actor relies on ethical leaders who lead with moral courage. The chapter concludes with a case example of a business leader who exemplifies ethical leadership to promote peace through her entrepreneurial venture.
TopMaking Peace A Priority
Business and human rights (BHR) scholars have made arguments for the moral obligations of business with respect to human rights (Baumann-Pauly, 2018; Katsos, 2020). Moreover, third-party organizations exist to hold business accountable to standards of conduct that uphold human rights commitments in various business sectors including agriculture, fashion, and extraction. Business is increasingly expected to uphold human rights in their operations and manufacturing functions. Several organizations exist to hold business accountable for maintaining and advancing human rights, including Human Rights Watch, The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and International Human Rights and Business, which serves as a think tank on business and human rights. Multinational corporations (MNC) and small to medium enterprises have realized consumers and other stakeholders expect business to lead the way in protecting human rights and eliminating abuses. The consequences of not meeting human rights standards are increasingly exacted against businesses that turn a blind eye and allow human rights violations to persist.
The intersection of human rights, sustainability, and peace is well established (Oetzel et al., 2007). Where human rights violations exist, conflict is often present, signaling an absence of peace along with degradation of the environment. Organizations that work at this intersection understand the systemic connection of human rights, sustainability, and peace to address these complex issues. The International Peace Information Service is an independent research institute based in Belgium that provides tailored information, analysis, and capacity enhancement to support those actors who want to realize a vision of durable peace, sustainable development, and the fulfillment of human rights (International Peace Information Service, n.d.).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Ethical Leadership: A leadership theory that emphasizes the ethical dimensions of leading and describes characteristics associated with ethical leadership.
Business for Peace (B4P): A term used to describe a business that prioritizes peace as a business objective.
Full Spectrum Thinking: The ability to simultaneously see and comprehend the whole and the parts as a graduation of complex system.
Moral Courage: The commitment to take action based on moral values to effect change or lead in a way that requires courage.