Representatives from the Business for Peace Alliance, BPA, Sri Lanka’s network of regional business chambers committed to regional empowerment, national unity and CSR; participated in an exchange programme with business leaders engaged in fostering economic growth, peace and stability in Nepal.

In addition to the representatives from BPA, the Sri Lankan delegation also included a representative from the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and a Youth and labour specialist.

The programme aimed to facilitate regional experience sharing and stimulate discussions on the private sector’s potentials and roles in inclusive economic development for sustainable peacebuilding. The exchange programme also attempted to establish networks and build solidarity at a regional level between Sri Lanka and Nepal.

In addition to meetings with business leaders in Nepal, meetings also took place with key Government Officials including Gopal Shakya, Minister of Youth and Sports, Nepal.

A series of informal interactions and workshops took place in Biratnagar and Kathmandu. During these workshops and interactions, various impacts of conflict on business were discussed, such as extortions, abductions, and threats as well as decline in investment opportunities and strained industrial relations.

"Everybody should do what they can from where they are and from what they have for peace, and we as the private sector are determined to take our peace-building role forward," says Padma Jyoti, President of NBI and of the key organizers of the exchange. He further stressed that, "there is no successful business in an unsuccessful society and there can be no successful society without successful business".

Identifying and sharing common problems and challenges is critical for successful collective advocacy efforts. However, it is recognised that the private sector also needs to generate knowledge and better understanding of social issues and the root causes of conflict. Furthermore, the image of businesses needs to be improved by demonstrating that businesses care for society, for example, through strategic CSR interventions. "Investing in people means investing in peace," said Ms. Manique Mendis, Secretary-General, BPA.

The exchange also focused on the role of the private sector in youth integration and employment generation in conflict affected societies. The role of the private sector in supporting youth from disadvantaged backgrounds was highlighted, though it will require the private sector to overcome preconceived notions on youth as "trouble makers".

However, the participants agreed that youth can be a positive force for necessary social and economic change. A need for a holistic policy on youth was seen as paramount for Sri Lanka as well as Nepal.