Event Recording: Fuelling Conflict: Inside the Illicit Economies of War
Published by Adam Smith International
ARMED CONFLICT
This insightful discussion took place at the ASI London office on September 16, 2024, as part of the ASI Thought Leaders Series. In today’s armed conflicts, the lines between combat and crime blur, with various actors engaging in large-scale illicit activities to fund and sustain their operations. These 'war economies' are driven by organised armed groups, criminal syndicates, and corrupt politicians, all exploiting conflict conditions to perpetuate ongoing violence. Traditionally, research has focused primarily on male actors in war economies, but Dr Orly Maya Stern’s forthcoming book 'Women and War Economies' brings a new perspective, shedding light on the often-overlooked roles of women in these illicit networks.
The panel featured a mix of renowned experts:
- Dr Orly Maya Stern, discussing her research on women in war economies.
- Professor Jonathan Goodhand (SOAS/FCDO/UKRI), focusing on drug economies in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Colombia.
- Michael Jones (RUSI), exploring how violent extremist organisations (VEOs) like Al-Shabaab exploit and are shaped by wider conflict economies.
- Kathleen Valentini (ASI), moderating the discussion.
This event is particularly relevant to those working on conflict resolution, war economies, terror financing, and gender issues.
Watch the full event and learn more about the hidden dynamics that sustain modern conflicts and the pivotal roles played by both men and women in these war economies.
