Environmental neglect: Other casualties of post-war infrastructure development

Post-war societies have tended to look towards infrastructure development as a strategy for recovery and reconciliation; anticipating that improved connectivity can boost trade competitiveness, where this reorganization and new developments aiming to reshape how people relate with one another. Amidst these developments, the environment remains a forgotten victim, with habitats destroyed and livelihoods severely affected, to name a few. In this critical review, we draw from a selection of case studies, primarily Sri Lanka, to highlight the environmental ramifications from an over-emphasis on post-war infrastructure development. By evaluating the connection between natural resources, livelihoods and peacebuilding, we urge for a renewed attention towards the environment, an often-forgotten dimension in post-conflict agendas, in order to assure sustainable peacebuilding efforts.