ABSTRACT
In post-conflict countries, proper management of high-value natural resources can yield the necessary revenues to put the economy back on track and allow recovery from conflict. But such resources can also be a source of tension and even violence: for example, former belligerents who are unsatisfied with the terms of the peace agreement may seek opportunities to finance a new uprising; extractive companies may attempt to take advantage of disarray to secure lucrative resource concessions; and corrupt government officials may seek opportunities to enrich themselves and their constituencies. Local populations, meanwhile, are desperate to rebuild their homes and their lives; often depend on natural resources for their livelihoods; and may be suffering not only from the effects of conflict, but also from the negative side effects of resource extraction.
