Exploring the operations of multinational corporations in conflict areas

The research project 'The operations of multinational corporations (MNCs) in conflicted areas: towards the development of a conceptual framework' addresses the ethical challenges and legal gaps regarding the operations of MNCs in conflict zones.

Despite numerous attempts to hold MNCs accountable for their actions in conflict and fragile states, many companies have managed to evade responsibility. A French Supreme Court ruling, which held Lafarge (a French MNC) and its executives accountable for financing terrorist organisations in Syria through their subsidiary, has renewed global interest in this issue. This research project assembles a multidisciplinary team to analyse past cases, exploring the intersection of business and tax law, political economy, business and economic history, economics, and finance. The ultimate goal is to study patterns that can help throw light on legal and historical contexts with the view of developing a conceptual framework for the operation of MNCs in conflict areas for global adoption.
 
Participating researchers in this project are:
  • Irma Mosquera Valderrama (Co-lead, Faculty of Law, Leiden University)
  • Ayodeji Olukoju (Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos, Nigeria)
  • Paul Kamau (Institute of Development Studies, University of Nairobi, Kenya)
  • Abel Ezeoha (Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Aliki, Nigeria)
Research project
Period: 
2025
Status: 
Ongoing

Senior researchers

Chibuike U. Uche
Convenor: 
Chibuike U. Uche

Keywords

multinational corporations, MNCs, conflict areas, ethics

Funding and cooperation

Funding: 

Leiden University Global Fund (LUGF) Seed Fund