In the contemporary sustainability crisis and our concern about the planet and global warming, we must never forget that sustainability is about people and their ability to live peacefully and in harmony with each other. With the problems in Eastern Europe between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine, we are faced daily with human suffering and mortality, as well as the destruction of the physical environment. However, the problems are often much nearer home, in our own communities and, on occasion, in our own families. This and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) was the theme of a recent workshop for Welsh university early-career researchers co-organised by the Learned Society of Wales (LSW) and Academi Heddwch Cymru (AHC) (Wales’ first Peace Institute) and funded by the Welsh Government. At the workshop led by AHC’s Research Lead Professor Colin McInnes, I was able to represent not only the UWTSD, but the voice of the Harmonious Entrepreneurship Society and share how Harmonious Enterprises can act as catalysts for social good, aligning perfectly with our aspirations for a just, equitable, and nonviolent world. The principles of Harmonious Entrepreneurship—balancing profit, people, and planet—promote ethical, sustainable business practices. This philosophy not only fosters equitable economic systems but also addresses the root causes of inequality and unrest. By embodying values of harmony and prosperity, harmonious entrepreneurship champions holistic, humanistic approaches to business and leadership, paving the way for more compassionate, conscious pathways to peace.
Our harmonious enterprise case studies serve as beacons, demonstrating how businesses can drive social change and empower marginalised communities. Examples like Offploy CIC and Tap Social highlight the potential for reducing reoffending rates, thereby contributing to a more inclusive society. Manumit Coffee Roasters exemplifies the power of ethical entrepreneurship by transforming the lives of its employees and setting a precedent for businesses worldwide to follow in the fight against modern slavery. The emphasis on community building and social cohesion through projects like XO Bikes and the Syrian Dinner Project highlights the role of entrepreneurship in promoting cultural exchange and understanding. In conclusion, the HES focus on localisation and grassroots efforts is in harmony with the sandpit call for strong community-led peacebuilding research and interventions. This approach can help ensure that initiatives have a lasting impact on fostering global peace and development.
HES looks forward to infusing the research dialogue with fellow early researchers, LSW, and AHC.
As the American author Lain Taylor has recognised. “Peace is more than the absence of War.. Peace is accord. Harmony”.
© Harmonious-Entrepreneurship.org / Harmonious Entrepreneurship Ltd. (2020-2024).
HES 2020-2025 