Designing Peace-positive Businesses

Executive Summary

This research focuses on examining how businesses can be internally designed to become

positive forces for peace. It addresses the growing significance of businesses in the context of

global conflicts and tensions, emphasizing the need for businesses to contribute to peace and

stability, both externally and internally. The research employs a qualitative approach, drawing

on existing academic literature in the field of Business and Peace, as well as conducting

twelve semi-structured interviews with researchers, business leaders, and experts. The data

collected from these interviews is analyzed using the Gioia Methodology, focusing on

identifying patterns, themes, and dimensions related to business internal design and peace.

The findings suggest three key dimensions in which businesses can positively influence peace

internally:

1. The human dimension: Emphasizes the role of leadership and consciousness, highlighting

the importance of ethical leadership, reciprocity, and moral decision-making within

organizations.

2. The compliance dimension: Focuses on adherence to national and international standards

and regulations, indicating the need for businesses to be accountable and transparent in their

reporting and operations.

3. The organizational dimension: Addresses the need for businesses to prioritize peace in their

strategic planning and organizational structures, integrating peace considerations into their

mission, vision, and business models.

The research implications suggest several managerial actions for businesses, such as:

- Prioritizing leadership development to cultivate ethical leaders who prioritize peace.

- Enhancing compliance efforts to meet evolving standards and regulations related to peace.

- Integrating peace considerations into strategic planning and business models.

Overall, the findings underscore the importance of businesses taking proactive steps to

become positive forces for peace both internally and externally. The findings specifically

suggest that there is room for businesses to improve their contribution to peace by paying

attention to the internal design. This could evolve creating a work environment that values,

diversity, fosters inclusivity, and addresses conflicts constructively, thereby contributing to

broader societal peace.

While the research provides valuable insights, there are limitations to consider, such as the

small sample size and geographic focus, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Additionally, the complexity of the topic suggests that further research is needed to further

understand the role of businesses in promoting peace and addressing non-peaceful activities.