Publication

This publication argues that Western, state-centric peace-building efforts do not adequately address the regional economic spillover effects many conflicts, including the one in Syria, have on neighboring countries. The text’s author contends that given the interconnectedness of conflicts and economies, taking a regional approach to peace talks could lead to better outcomes. For instance, she suggests that China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which takes a regional approach towards the Levant, could play a constructive role in post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization efforts, and help regional countries exit war economies.