ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part illustrates the risks that can arise when good governance of natural resources is not assigned priority on the peacebuilding agenda. It highlights approaches for improving natural resource governance. The part also illustrates the political, social, and environmental consequences of inadequate natural resource governance following conflict. It also highlights measures that can help improve natural resource governance in such situations. The part discusses potential solutions to the exploitation, including international engagement and community-level management. It explains the ways in which unclear or ineffective resource regulation can impede peacebuilding. The part surveys the intricate relationship between natural resources, governance, and post-conflict peacebuilding. Peacebuilding provides an opportunity to reform laws and norms, and to rebuild institutions to better manage natural resources and benefit populations. After conflict, weakened regulatory capacity is often a boon to competing factions or predatory elites seeking to profit from natural resources.
