Why neoliberalism can’t build peace

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Samer JaberJanuary 27, 2026 at 11:49 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

The article examines the use of neoliberal economic development plans as a tool for peace-making in conflict zones, specifically focusing on initiatives in Gaza, Ukraine's Donbas, and Syria's Golan Heights. It argues that this approach, exemplified by past efforts in Occupied Palestine, has consistently failed. The article cites Shimon Peres' "New Middle East" vision in the 1990s and the Quartet's initiatives in 2007, led by Tony Blair, as examples where promises of economic integration and development did not prevent further conflict. The author suggests that these "business" approaches, also seen in recent US efforts, are a flawed conviction that economic development can resolve conflicts. The article implies that these plans overlook the underlying political issues and power dynamics that fuel the conflicts.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Russia 40% Golan Heights 50% Donbas 60% Shimon Peres ×260% Syria ×260% United States ×270% Ukraine ×270% Tony Blair ×270% Palestinian Authority 70% Donald Trump ×280% Gaza ×280% Israel ×490%

Keywords

neoliberalism 100% peace-making 80% economic development 70% conflict resolution 60% israeli-palestinian conflict 60% economic peace 50% global south 50% palestinian authority 40% oslo accords 40%