Primer on private sector engagement in fragile and conflict-affected situations

This USAID primer offers guidance and real-world examples on how to strategically engage the private sector in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations. 

It takes a systems thinking approach and involved consultations with both PSE and humanitarian communities.

Key guidance includes:

• add a ‘third dimension’ - conflict sensitivity - to shared value definitions
• don’t skimp on PSE best practice to do upfront opportunity scoping
• pay extra attention to a firm’s position and incentives
• go beyond financial support to embrace diverse engagement roles (e.g. as convener, actively facilitating systems leadership) 

Four types of private sector actors are profiled representing various incentives, risk appetites and decision-making drivers: 

• social enterprises
• local private sector
• large footprint companies
• new investors

It also provides real-life examples around engaging these private sector actors to support conflict stabilisation, humanitarian efforts and foster resilience.