Economic conflict

Question 1

Economic conflict

Answer 1

Economic conflict arises when competing interests or priorities clash over the allocation of scarce resources. These conflicts can occur at various levels, including between individuals, groups, businesses, or nations.

Question 2

Main examples of Economic Conflict

6 of them

Answer 2

• Labour Disputes
• Trade Wars
• Resource Conflicts
• Economic Sanctions
• Wealth Inequality
• Environmental Conflict

Question 3

Labour Disputes:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 3

Workers may demand higher wages or better conditions, while employers aim to minimise costs.
* Example: strikes or collective bargaining negotiations.

Question 4

Trade Wars:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 4

Nations impose tariffs or trade restrictions to protect domestic industries or retaliate against unfair practices.
* Example: The US–China trade war, where tariffs were imposed on goods from both sides.

Question 5

Resource Conflicts:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 5

Disputes arise over access to critical resources such as oil, water or minerals.
* Example: Conflicts in the South China Sea over fishing rights and oil reserves.

Question 6

Economic Sanctions:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 6

Countries use sanctions to weaken rivals or enforce policy changes.
* Example: Sanctions against Russia following its actions in Ukraine.

Question 7

Wealth Inequality:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 7

Tensions emerge between social classes or regions over disparities in wealth and opportunity.
* Example: Protests such as the ‘Yellow Vests’ movement in France.

Question 8

Environmental Conflict:

Examples of Economic Conflict

Answer 8

Tensions emerge between large corporations and local landowners.
* Example: Conflict between Royal Dutch Shell and local companies and landowners in Nigeria.

Question 9

Causes of Economic Conflict

4 of them

Answer 9

• Scarcity of Resources: Limited resources force parties to compete for access and control.
• Economic Inequality: Unequal wealth distribution often fuels resentment and unrest.
• Globalisation: Trade imbalances and outsourcing can create tensions between countries or within societies.
• Political and Ideological Differences: Economic policies tied to ideologies (e.g. capitalism vs socialism) can create disputes.

Question 10

Outcomes of Economic Conflict

Answer 10

• Positive: It may lead to reforms, innovations, or better policies (e.g. fair labour laws).
• Negative: It can escalate into broader social unrest, economic downturns, or armed conflict.