This series of four country case studies explores the ways in which the economic causes, drivers andimpacts of conflict have been tackled in different ways in different conflict-affected countries whereAlert works. The aim is to encourage cross-country learning, and inform on what has become a vibrantinternational debate in the last few years on how to adapt economic development interventionsto conflict contexts, in a way that makes them conflict-sensitive, and able to support longer-termpeace-building. This paper critically discusses the nexus between youth unemployment and conflict, based on field research conducted in the Sri Lankan district of Hambantota. The report builds on the workof International Alert and its Sri Lankan partners, in promoting a peace-building role for the privatesector, and improving governance of the economy in support of peace. The report also seeks todraw lessons for international debate and, eventually, policy and practice in other conflict-affectedcountries, in order to strengthen measures that can address both youth employment and conflict,and better link them to wider peace-building efforts. While, of course, each context remains unique,and requires distinct analysis and responses, we have found that cross-country learning andreflection are an effective means for improving the peace-building practice of a variety of actors.This may include the work of governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, as wellas the donor community.