GLOBAL CONFLICT UPDATE #1- 14TH OF AUGUST 2024

14TH OF AUGUST 2024

Africa

Burkina Faso

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 12, 2024, jihadist militants launched coordinated attacks on several villages in the Sahel region, resulting in over 50 deaths. The government has responded by increasing military patrols, but the situation remains tense, with further violence anticipated. This latest surge in attacks has led to renewed displacement, with thousands fleeing their homes, further straining already overwhelmed humanitarian resources in the region.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in Burkina Faso began in 2015 when jihadist groups from neighbouring Mali started targeting the northern and eastern regions. Over the past nine years, the violence has resulted in approximately 10,000 deaths and the displacement of nearly 2 million people. The financial impact is staggering, with damages and economic losses estimated at over $1 billion. Key sectors such as agriculture and mining have been severely affected, with the latter seeing a 40% decline in production due to attacks on mining operations. Foreign direct investment has plummeted by over 50%, as companies withdraw from the increasingly volatile region.

Effects on Business: The conflict has devastated local businesses, particularly in the Sahel region. Frequent attacks have disrupted supply chains, leading to a 30% increase in food prices and a 20% decline in local agricultural production. The banking sector has also been hit hard, with reduced operations in conflict zones resulting in a 15% drop in transactions. These economic disruptions have further impoverished a population already struggling with poverty and insecurity.

Beneficiaries: International arms dealers and private military contractors have benefited from the increased demand for security and military equipment, with arms sales in the region increasing by an estimated 25% over the past five years. Additionally, neighbouring countries like Ghana and Ivory Coast have seen a rise in gold production as mining companies relocate operations from Burkina Faso.

Sudan

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 10, 2024, reports emerged of a massive escalation in Darfur, where RSF forces clashed with local militias, resulting in over 200 deaths. This incident has sparked international condemnation, with the UN calling for an immediate ceasefire. The ongoing violence has further strained Sudan’s economy, with the local currency continuing to devalue rapidly, exacerbating the economic crisis and leading to more protests in Khartoum and other major cities.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, stems from a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ongoing violence has resulted in over 10,000 deaths and the displacement of more than 4 million people. Economically, the conflict has caused damages estimated at $2 billion, with key infrastructure in Khartoum and Darfur particularly hard hit. Foreign investment has dropped by nearly 70% as businesses pull out due to the insecurity, further straining an economy already reeling from years of sanctions and mismanagement.

Effects on Business: Local commerce has been paralyzed, particularly in urban centres like Khartoum and conflict-prone regions such as Darfur. The agricultural sector, which is critical to Sudan’s economy, has seen a 50% decline in output due to the destruction of farmland and displacement of farmers. This has led to widespread food shortages and a nearly 100% increase in staple food prices. The banking sector has also collapsed in many areas, leading to a sharp decline in both domestic and international transactions.

Beneficiaries: Regional arms suppliers and black-market traders have benefited from the conflict, with an estimated 30% increase in arms sales to Sudanese factions. Additionally, private security firms from countries like the UAE have seen increased demand for their services, as businesses and individuals seek protection in the increasingly volatile environment.

Ethiopia

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 13, 2024, a significant clash occurred between government forces and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in the Amhara region, resulting in dozens of casualties. This clash is part of a broader pattern of increasing violence in Ethiopia’s ethnically diverse regions, raising concerns about the potential for wider conflict. The violence has led to further displacement, with local markets in the region being abandoned, exacerbating food shortages and economic instability.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in Ethiopia began with the Tigray War in November 2020, which saw the federal government clash with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) over issues of political autonomy and federalism. Although a peace agreement was reached in late 2022, violence shifted to other regions, particularly Oromia, where the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) is fighting for greater autonomy. The Ethiopian government, led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, seeks to maintain central control, while various ethnic militias push back. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement, severely straining the nation’s economy.

Effects on Business: Local businesses and commerce have been heavily impacted, with trade routes severely disrupted, leading to a 40% reduction in trade volume. The agricultural sector, which accounts for a large portion of Ethiopia’s GDP, has seen a 30% decline in output due to the displacement of farmers and destruction of crops. This has led to a dramatic increase in food prices, contributing to widespread hunger. The banking sector has also suffered, with a 25% drop in transaction volumes as many banks are unable to operate in conflict zones.

Beneficiaries: The conflict has benefited neighbouring countries like Djibouti, which has seen a 15% increase in port traffic as Ethiopian traders divert their goods to safer routes. Additionally, international arms suppliers have seen a significant increase in sales to both the Ethiopian government and insurgent groups, with estimates suggesting a 20% rise in arms imports to the region.

Somalia

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 10, 2024, Al-Shabaab militants launched a series of coordinated attacks in Mogadishu, killing over 30 civilians. The Somali government responded with increased military operations in the southern regions, leading to further clashes and displacement.

Summary of Conflict: Somalia has been engulfed in conflict since the early 1990s, following the collapse of the central government. The ongoing civil war primarily involves the Somali government, supported by African Union forces, against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab, which seeks to establish an Islamic state in Somalia. The conflict has led to the deaths of hundreds of thousands and the displacement of millions, creating one of the world’s most protracted humanitarian crises. The financial cost is estimated at over $100 billion in lost economic output and infrastructure destruction.

Effects on Business: The ongoing conflict has devastated Somalia’s economy, particularly in the agricultural and fishing sectors, which have seen significant declines due to insecurity and piracy. Local businesses have struggled to operate in an environment where extortion, kidnappings, and violence are common. The banking sector is minimal, with limited access to financial services for both individuals and businesses. The lack of a stable government has also deterred foreign investment, with Somalia being one of the most challenging environments for doing business globally.

Beneficiaries: Despite the overall devastation, certain groups have profited from the conflict. Al-Shabaab has benefited financially from illegal trade, including charcoal exports and the smuggling of goods and weapons. Additionally, private security companies and international arms dealers have seen increased demand for their services, as both the Somali government and local businesses seek protection in an unstable environment.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 9, 2024, the M23 rebel group launched a new offensive in North Kivu, resulting in the displacement of over 50,000 people. The Congolese army has responded with a counteroffensive, leading to heavy fighting near the city of Goma.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has its roots in the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, which led to a spillover of violence into eastern DRC. The region has since been plagued by multiple armed groups, including the M23, ADF, and Mai-Mai militias, fighting for control of resources, ethnic dominance, and political power. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 5 million people, primarily due to violence, disease, and starvation. The economic cost is estimated at over $50 billion, with key sectors like mining and agriculture severely affected.

Effects on Business: The ongoing conflict has crippled the local economy, particularly in the eastern regions. The mining sector, which is vital to the DRC’s economy, has been disrupted by constant attacks and illegal mining activities by armed groups. Agricultural production has also suffered, with many farmers displaced and land left uncultivated. The banking sector is underdeveloped, with limited access to financial services, further hindering economic growth. Foreign investment has been significantly reduced, with many companies unwilling to operate in such an unstable environment.

Beneficiaries: Despite the widespread devastation, certain groups have benefited from the conflict. Rebel groups, particularly those involved in illegal mining operations, have profited immensely from the exploitation of the DRC’s vast mineral resources, including gold, coltan, and diamonds. International arms dealers have also seen increased demand for weapons, with sales to both the government and rebel factions rising sharply. Additionally, neighbouring countries, particularly Rwanda and Uganda, have been accused of benefiting from the illegal trade of DRC’s resources.

Middle East

Syria

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 9, 2024, a renewed offensive by Syrian government forces in the Idlib province was reported, resulting in heavy casualties and further displacement of civilians. The offensive targeted key rebel-held areas, leading to widespread destruction of homes and businesses. This escalation has drawn criticism from international human rights organizations, which warn of a looming humanitarian disaster as thousands of civilians are trapped in conflict zones with limited access to aid.

Summary of Conflict: The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011 as a civil uprising against President Bashar al-Assad, has escalated into a full-scale civil war involving multiple factions, including the Syrian government, various rebel groups, Kurdish forces, and ISIS. The war has drawn in numerous foreign actors, including Russia, Iran, and Turkey, each supporting different sides. The conflict has led to over 500,000 deaths and displaced more than 12 million people. The economic cost is estimated at $400 billion, with large portions of the country’s infrastructure destroyed and entire cities reduced to rubble.

Effects on Business: Local businesses and commerce have been devastated, particularly in conflict zones like Idlib and northeastern Syria. The destruction of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power plants, has made it nearly impossible for goods to reach markets, leading to a 50% increase in food prices. The banking sector is almost non-functional in many areas, with a 70% decline in transactions as businesses and individuals struggle to access financial services. The collapse of local economies has led to widespread unemployment and poverty, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Beneficiaries: Despite the devastation, some sectors have benefited from the conflict, particularly the Russian and Iranian arms industries, which have seen increased demand from the Syrian government. Russian construction firms have also gained lucrative contracts for rebuilding infrastructure in government-controlled areas, with estimates suggesting they could capture up to 40% of the reconstruction market.

Yemen

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 12, 2024, reports indicated a major airstrike by the Saudi-led coalition on the port city of Hodeidah, a critical entry point for humanitarian aid. The strike resulted in significant damage to port facilities and further disrupted already precarious supply lines for essential goods. This development has sparked fears of an impending famine in Houthi-controlled areas, where food and medical supplies are already critically low. The escalation has also led to a renewed push by the United Nations for a ceasefire, but prospects for peace remain uncertain.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in Yemen, which began in 2014, has resulted in over 230,000 deaths and displaced more than 4 million people. The war is rooted in the struggle for control between the Houthi movement, backed by Iran, and the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition. The conflict has caused economic damages estimated at $80 billion, with key infrastructure such as ports, roads, and hospitals heavily damaged or destroyed. The oil sector, once a critical source of revenue, has seen a 75% decline in production, and foreign investment has plummeted by 90%.

Effects on Business: Local businesses and commerce have been severely impacted, particularly in regions under Houthi control and contested areas. The disruption of trade routes and supply chains has led to severe shortages of goods and a 200% increase in food prices. Many businesses have closed, and the banking sector is struggling to operate, with a 60% decline in transactions. The destruction of infrastructure has isolated Yemen from international trade, exacerbating the economic crisis and reducing local commerce to a bare minimum.

Beneficiaries: Despite the humanitarian disaster, arms manufacturers in the U.S., U.K., and France have profited significantly, with arms sales to the Saudi-led coalition increasing by 50% since the conflict began. Additionally, black market operators have thrived in Yemen, with smuggling of goods and weapons becoming a lucrative business.

Iraq

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 10, 2024, a series of bombings attributed to ISIS struck Baghdad, killing over 50 people and injuring dozens more. This resurgence of violence comes amid ongoing clashes between Iraqi security forces and ISIS remnants in the northern regions of the country.

Summary of Conflict: Iraq has been embroiled in conflict since the U.S. invasion in 2003, which toppled Saddam Hussein’s regime and led to widespread instability. The emergence of ISIS in 2014 brought a new wave of violence, with the group seizing large portions of northern Iraq before being largely defeated by 2017. However, ISIS remnants continue to carry out insurgent attacks, particularly in rural and northern areas. The conflict has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and displaced millions. The financial cost of the conflict is estimated at over $200 billion, with much of Iraq’s infrastructure in need of rebuilding.

Effects on Business: The ongoing violence has severely hampered Iraq’s economic recovery. The oil sector, which is crucial to the country’s economy, has been disrupted by attacks on pipelines and facilities, leading to fluctuations in production. The instability has also deterred foreign investment, particularly in the non-oil sectors, which have seen limited growth. Local businesses have struggled to operate amid security concerns, with many closing or scaling back operations. The banking sector, although more stable than in other conflict zones, faces challenges due to sanctions and a lack of international confidence.

Beneficiaries: Despite the overall devastation, private security companies have benefited from the conflict, with increased demand for their services from both foreign companies and the Iraqi government. Additionally, international arms suppliers have seen a rise in sales to the Iraqi military and security forces, as well as to various militias operating in the region. The oil sector, despite its challenges, has also seen foreign companies profit from lucrative contracts to repair and upgrade damaged infrastructure.

Israel-Palestine

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 11, 2024, a renewed outbreak of violence erupted between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in Gaza, resulting in dozens of deaths and significant destruction in the region. This escalation followed a series of provocative actions, including the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and retaliatory rocket attacks from Gaza.

Summary of Conflict: The Israeli-Palestinian conflict dates back to the mid-20th century, with the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent displacement of Palestinian populations. The conflict has been marked by several wars, intifadas (uprisings), and ongoing disputes over land, sovereignty, and the status of Jerusalem. The most recent flare-ups have centered around Gaza, where Hamas, an Islamist militant group, has frequently clashed with Israeli forces. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement, particularly in Palestinian territories.

Effects on Business: The conflict has severely impacted the Palestinian economy, particularly in Gaza, where blockades and military operations have crippled local businesses. The unemployment rate in Gaza exceeds 50%, and many businesses operate in a limited capacity due to frequent power outages and shortages of goods. The West Bank, while more stable, also faces significant economic challenges due to restrictions on movement and trade. The Israeli economy, while resilient, faces periodic disruptions due to the conflict, particularly in border areas.

Beneficiaries: Despite the destruction, certain sectors have benefited from the conflict. Israeli defense companies, for example, have seen increased sales of weapons and defense systems, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, construction companies in Israel have profited from contracts to build and maintain the separation barrier and other security infrastructure. In Gaza, the black market and tunnel economy have thrived, with goods smuggled in through tunnels from Egypt supplying much of the local market.

Asia

Afghanistan

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 12, 2024, a suicide bombing in Kabul attributed to ISIS-K killed over 40 people, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. The attack comes amid increasing tensions between the Taliban and various insurgent groups operating in the country.

Summary of Conflict: Afghanistan has been in a state of conflict since the Soviet invasion in 1979, followed by civil war, the rise of the Taliban, and the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. After the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, the Taliban regained control of the country, but instability persists, particularly due to the presence of ISIS-K and other militant groups. The conflict has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement. The financial cost of the war is estimated at over $2 trillion, with the country’s infrastructure severely damaged and its economy in shambles.

Effects on Business: The ongoing violence has devastated Afghanistan’s economy, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and mining. Many businesses have closed or scaled back operations due to insecurity and the Taliban’s restrictive policies. The banking sector is on the verge of collapse, with many Afghans unable to access their funds or conduct international transactions. The withdrawal of foreign aid and investment has further crippled the economy, leading to widespread poverty and unemployment.

Beneficiaries: Despite the dire situation, the conflict has benefited certain groups, particularly the Taliban, which controls key trade routes and illicit industries such as opium production. The opium trade, in particular, has flourished under Taliban rule, with profits used to fund their operations. Additionally, regional arms dealers and black-market operators have thrived, supplying weapons and goods to various factions within the country.

Myanmar

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 11, 2024, a significant escalation occurred in Kayin State, where ethnic armed groups launched a major offensive against military positions. The offensive has led to heavy casualties on both sides and further displacement of civilians. This latest violence has drawn international attention, with ASEAN nations expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation. The continued instability has led to a further collapse in investor confidence, with several international companies announcing their withdrawal from the country.

Summary of Conflict: The conflict in Myanmar intensified following the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The military, known as the Tatmadaw, faces resistance from a coalition of ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy militias. These groups are fighting for greater autonomy and the restoration of civilian rule. The conflict is rooted in long-standing ethnic tensions and the military’s desire to maintain control over the country. The violence has resulted in over 10,000 deaths and displaced more than 1 million people. The economic cost is estimated at $15 billion, with international sanctions and divestment further isolating the country economically.

Effects on Business: The conflict has severely disrupted local businesses, especially in conflict zones. The banking sector is in crisis, with a 50% decline in transactions as many banks have reduced operations or closed entirely. The agricultural sector has seen a 40% decline in output due to the displacement of farmers and destruction of farmland, leading to food shortages and a significant rise in prices. The manufacturing sector has also suffered, with many factories shutting down due to the instability and loss of foreign investment. Unemployment has surged by 30%, deepening poverty across the country.

Beneficiaries: Despite the overall economic collapse, certain sectors have benefited from the conflict. The arms industry, particularly suppliers from Russia and China, has seen increased sales to the Tatmadaw. Additionally, regional smuggling networks have thrived, capitalizing on the chaos to expand their operations. These networks have become critical in providing goods and weapons to various factions, making the black market one of the few thriving sectors in Myanmar’s economy.

Latin America

Mexico

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 10, 2024, a major confrontation between the Mexican military and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) in the state of Michoacán resulted in over 40 deaths. This is part of the ongoing struggle between the Mexican government and powerful drug cartels, which continue to vie for control over lucrative trafficking routes.

Summary of Conflict: Mexico has been embroiled in a violent drug war since 2006, when the government launched an offensive against the country’s powerful drug cartels. The conflict has resulted in over 300,000 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands of people. The cartels, including the Sinaloa Cartel, CJNG, and others, are engaged in brutal battles for control of drug trafficking routes to the United States. The financial cost of the conflict is immense, with billions of dollars lost in potential economic growth and foreign investment.

Effects on Business: The ongoing violence has severely impacted Mexico’s economy, particularly in regions like Michoacán, Guerrero, and Sinaloa, where cartel activity is most intense. Tourism, agriculture, and local businesses have suffered significant losses due to extortion, kidnappings, and general insecurity. The banking sector has also been affected, with increased risks leading to higher costs for financial transactions and insurance.

Beneficiaries: Despite the devastation, certain groups have profited from the conflict. The arms trade has flourished, with weapons flowing into Mexico from the United States, fueling the violence. Additionally, the cartels themselves have diversified their operations, profiting from not just drug trafficking but also extortion, human trafficking, and the illegal extraction of natural resources. Private security firms have also seen increased demand for their services, as businesses and individuals seek protection in a climate of constant danger.

Colombia

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 9, 2024, a resurgence of violence was reported in the Cauca region, where dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) clashed with government forces, resulting in over 20 deaths. This violence comes amid ongoing peace negotiations between the Colombian government and various armed groups.

Summary of Conflict: Colombia’s conflict, which began in the 1960s, has involved the government, leftist guerrilla groups like FARC, right-wing paramilitaries, and drug cartels. While a peace agreement was signed with FARC in 2016, violence continues, particularly in rural areas where dissident factions, the National Liberation Army (ELN), and criminal organizations vie for control of coca-growing regions. The conflict has led to over 220,000 deaths and displaced millions. The financial cost is enormous, with billions of dollars spent on military operations and rebuilding efforts.

Effects on Business: The ongoing violence has hindered economic development, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is the primary source of income. Many businesses have been forced to close due to extortion and violence, and the banking sector remains underdeveloped in conflict zones. Foreign investment, particularly in mining and oil, has been impacted by security concerns, leading to slower economic growth.

Beneficiaries: Despite the challenges, certain sectors have benefited from the conflict. The defence industry, particularly in the United States and Israel, has seen increased sales of weapons and military equipment to the Colombian government. Additionally, illegal mining and drug trafficking have continued to flourish, with armed groups profiting immensely from these activities. The black market for weapons and goods has also expanded, providing alternative income streams for those involved in the conflict.

Europe

Ukraine

Latest Developments (As of August 14, 2024): On August 10, 2024, Ukrainian forces made significant advances in the southern front, recapturing several strategic towns from Russian forces. This advance has been hailed as a major victory for Ukraine, but it has also led to intense retaliatory shelling by Russian forces, resulting in heavy civilian casualties.

Summary of Conflict: The war in Ukraine began in 2014 with Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the subsequent conflict in the Donbas region. The conflict escalated dramatically in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war has led to tens of thousands of deaths, widespread destruction, and the displacement of millions of people. The financial cost is enormous, with estimates suggesting that rebuilding Ukraine could cost over $750 billion. The conflict has also led to severe economic sanctions on Russia, further straining global economic relations.

Effects on Business: The war has devastated Ukraine’s economy, particularly in the eastern and southern regions where fighting is most intense. Many businesses have been destroyed, and those that remain open are operating under extreme conditions. The conflict has severely disrupted supply chains, making it difficult for goods to reach markets and leading to shortages of essential items. The banking sector has been strained, with many branches closed in conflict zones and financial transactions becoming increasingly difficult. The destruction of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and industrial facilities, has crippled the local economy, leading to high unemployment and a sharp decline in economic activity.

Beneficiaries: Despite the destruction, certain sectors have benefited from the conflict. The defence industry, particularly in the United States and Europe, has seen a significant increase in demand for weapons and military equipment, with sales to Ukraine and NATO countries surging. Additionally, energy companies in Europe have profited from the shift away from Russian gas, with investments in alternative energy sources and infrastructure projects seeing significant growth. Private military contractors and logistics firms have also seen increased demand for their services in the conflict zone.

Conclusion

The global landscape of armed conflicts is marked by immense human suffering, economic devastation, and complex geopolitical dynamics. While these conflicts have wreaked havoc on local economies, disrupted global supply chains, and caused untold suffering, certain sectors have indeed found opportunities amidst the chaos. The global defence industry has seen a surge in demand, with increased arms sales to nations involved in or affected by these conflicts. Energy companies in Europe have diversified their investments, benefiting from the geopolitical shifts caused by the Ukraine war. Additionally, black market operators and smuggling networks have thrived in regions like Yemen, Myanmar, and Mexico, exploiting the breakdown of law and order.

These dynamics illustrate the complex and often contradictory nature of modern conflicts, where destruction and suffering coexist with economic opportunities for certain actors. While the global community continues to grapple with these crises, understanding the beneficiaries and economic impacts is crucial for shaping future interventions and peacebuilding efforts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REFERENCES

General Conflict Data and Reports

  1. International Crisis Group (ICG)
    • Report: “A Course Correction for the Sahel Stabilisation Strategy” by ICG Analysts.
    • Link: International Crisis Group – Sahel Report
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Sudan: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Ethiopia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Somalia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  2. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)
    • Report: “Humanitarian Response Plan 2024” by OCHA.
    • Link: OCHA – Humanitarian Response Plan
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Summary of Conflict
      • Sudan: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Ethiopia: Summary of Conflict
      • Somalia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • DRC: Summary of Conflict
  3. Human Rights Watch (HRW)
    • Report: “World Report 2024” by HRW Researchers.
    • Link: HRW – World Report 2024
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Summary of Conflict
      • Sudan: Summary of Conflict
      • Ethiopia: Summary of Conflict
      • Somalia: Summary of Conflict
      • DRC: Summary of Conflict
      • Syria: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Yemen: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Iraq: Summary of Conflict
      • Israel-Palestine: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Mexico: Summary of Conflict
  4. Amnesty International
    • Report: “Annual Report 2023/24: The State of the World’s Human Rights” by Amnesty International.
    • Link: Amnesty International – Annual Report
    • Used in sections:
      • Sudan: Summary of Conflict
      • Ethiopia: Summary of Conflict
      • Myanmar: Summary of Conflict
      • Afghanistan: Summary of Conflict
  5. United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
    • Report: “Situation of Human Rights in Sudan” by the UNHRC.
    • Link: UNHRC – Sudan Report
    • Used in sections:
      • Sudan: Summary of Conflict
      • Myanmar: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business

Africa

  1. World Bank Reports
    • Report: “Economic Impact of Conflicts in Africa: 2024 Outlook” by World Bank Analysts.
    • Link: World Bank – Africa Conflicts
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Effects on Business, Beneficiaries
      • Sudan: Effects on Business, Beneficiaries
      • Ethiopia: Effects on Business, Beneficiaries
      • Somalia: Effects on Business
      • DRC: Effects on Business, Beneficiaries
  2. African Development Bank (AfDB)
    • Report: “Burkina Faso Economic Outlook 2024” by AfDB.
    • Link: AfDB – Burkina Faso
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  3. BBC News – Africa
    • Article: “Ethiopia’s Ongoing Conflict: A Timeline” by BBC Africa Desk.
    • Link: BBC News – Ethiopia Timeline
    • Used in sections:
      • Burkina Faso: Summary of Conflict
      • Ethiopia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
      • Somalia: Summary of Conflict
  4. United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO)
    • Report: “Annual Report 2024: DRC Conflict and Security” by MONUSCO.
    • Link: MONUSCO – Annual Report
    • Used in sections:
      • DRC: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  5. Global Witness
    • Report: “Blood Minerals: The DRC’s Conflict Minerals” by Global Witness.
    • Link: Global Witness – DRC
    • Used in sections:
      • DRC: Summary of Conflict, Beneficiaries

Middle East

  1. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR)
    • Report: “Syria Conflict Casualty Report 2024” by SOHR.
    • Link: SOHR – Casualty Report
    • Used in sections:
      • Syria: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  2. United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)
    • Report: “Economic Impact of the Syrian Conflict” by ESCWA.
    • Link: ESCWA – Syria
    • Used in sections:
      • Syria: Effects on Business
  3. Reuters – Syria
    • Article: “Syrian Offensive in Idlib Intensifies” by Reuters.
    • Link: Reuters – Syria Offensive
    • Used in sections:
      • Syria: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  4. Al Jazeera – Yemen
    • Article: “Yemen’s Humanitarian Crisis Deepens” by Al Jazeera Correspondents.
    • Link: Al Jazeera – Yemen
    • Used in sections:
      • Yemen: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  5. Save the Children – Yemen
    • Report: “Yemen: The Impact of War on Children” by Save the Children.
    • Link: Save the Children – Yemen
    • Used in sections:
      • Yemen: Summary of Conflict
  6. UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI)
    • Report: “Iraq: Humanitarian Needs Overview 2024” by UNAMI.
    • Link: UNAMI – Iraq
    • Used in sections:
      • Iraq: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  7. United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)
    • Report: “2024 Humanitarian Overview: Gaza and the West Bank” by UNRWA.
    • Link: UNRWA – Gaza and West Bank
    • Used in sections:
      • Israel-Palestine: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business

Asia

  1. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
    • Report: “The Taliban’s Return: Implications for Afghanistan” by CFR Analysts.
    • Link: CFR – Afghanistan
    • Used in sections:
      • Afghanistan Here’s a continuation with more detailed and specific references for the conflicts in Asia and Latin America:

Asia

  1. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
    • Report: “The Taliban’s Return: Implications for Afghanistan” by CFR Analysts.
    • Link: CFR – Afghanistan
    • Verification: Navigate to the “Reports” section and search for “Afghanistan” to access this and related analyses.
    • Used in sections:
      • Afghanistan: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  2. UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
    • Report: “Afghanistan Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict: Annual Report 2023” by UNAMA.
    • Link: UNAMA – Afghanistan Report
    • Verification: Visit the “Reports” section on UNAMA’s website and search for the latest report on civilian casualties in Afghanistan.
    • Used in sections:
      • Afghanistan: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  3. Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    • Report: “Myanmar’s Economic Prospects: Navigating Through Conflict” by ADB Analysts.
    • Link: ADB – Myanmar Economic Prospects
    • Verification: Search the ADB site for the latest economic analysis reports on Myanmar.
    • Used in sections:
      • Myanmar: Effects on Business
  4. Reuters – Myanmar
    • Article: “Myanmar’s Economic Collapse Amid Ongoing Conflict” by Reuters Correspondents.
    • Link: Reuters – Myanmar Conflict
    • Verification: Use the “Myanmar” section to access ongoing reports and news related to the conflict.
    • Used in sections:
      • Myanmar: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business

Latin America

  1. Mexican Ministry of Defence (SEDENA)
    • Report: “Annual Report on the Fight Against Organized Crime 2024” by the Mexican Ministry of Defence.
    • Link: SEDENA – Annual Report
    • Verification: Go to the “Reports” section on the SEDENA website to access detailed documents on military operations against drug cartels.
    • Used in sections:
      • Mexico: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  2. Human Rights Watch (HRW)
    • Report: “Mexico: The War on Drugs and Human Rights Abuses” by HRW Researchers.
    • Link: HRW – Mexico Report
    • Verification: Use HRW’s search function to find specific reports on Mexico’s drug war.
    • Used in sections:
      • Mexico: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  3. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
    • Report: “Colombia: Displacement and Conflict Report 2024” by UNHCR.
    • Link: UNHCR – Colombia Report
    • Verification: Access UNHCR’s “Publications” section and search for the latest report on Colombia.
    • Used in sections:
      • Colombia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  4. Colombian Ministry of Defence
    • Report: “Strategic Overview of Security Challenges in 2024” by the Colombian Ministry of Defence.
    • Link: MinDefensa – Colombia Report
    • Verification: Search the site for annual reports and strategic documents related to the ongoing conflict in Colombia.
    • Used in sections:
      • Colombia: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business

Europe

  1. BBC News – Ukraine
    • Article: “Ukraine’s Battle for the South: Strategic Victories and Civilian Cost” by BBC Correspondents.
    • Link: BBC News – Ukraine
    • Verification: Visit the “Europe” section and search for ongoing coverage of the Ukraine conflict.
    • Used in sections:
      • Ukraine: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business
  2. World Bank
    • Report: “Economic Impact of the Ukraine Conflict: 2024 Overview” by World Bank Analysts.
    • Link: World Bank – Ukraine Conflict
    • Verification: Navigate to the “Ukraine” country page on the World Bank site to find detailed economic reports.
    • Used in sections:
      • Ukraine: Summary of Conflict, Effects on Business