An Institutional Perspective on Entrepreneurship in a Conflict Environment: Evidence from Pakistan
Affiliation
Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI) Pakistan; University of Chester; Massey University, New ZealandPublication Date
2016-06-02
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Purpose: In this paper, an institutional perspective is used to examine the different kinds of pressures on entrepreneurs manifest in a conflict environment. The study investigates how they respond to the conflict and establish legitimacy for their entrepreneurship in the challenging context of the north western areas of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a qualitative approach is taken based on semi-structured interviews from 16 different firms in the SWAT valley. Findings The entrepreneurs undertake different strategies towards dealing with conflict and establishing legitimacy. These strategies are identified and examined in relation to the interactions between entrepreneurial behaviour and institutional pressures. Research limitations/implications Qualitative research on a small sample inevitably presents a limitation on the generalisability of this work. Further research could employ quantitative methods to address this issue. One particular location is studied, so future research could be carried out in other countries or regions with similar problems. Practical implications The study may have value for policy makers who need to know more about how to support ongoing businesses in conflictual regions. Social implications Better understanding of the needs of small business may in time contribute to a better business climate in conflictual regions. Originality/value A new dimension is added to institutional theory through its application in the very uncertain environment between all out war and ongoing violence, identifying the possibility of weak agency for institutional change. Further, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on entrepreneurship in conflict environments. Keywords: Conflict, institutions, SMEs, Pakistan, entrepreneur, legitimacy Paper Type: Research paperCitation
Muhammad, N., Ullah, F. & Warren, L. (2016). An institutional perspective on entrepreneurship in a conflict environment: Evidence from Pakistan. International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, 22(5), 698-717,Publisher
EmeraldAdditional Links
https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/full/10.1108/IJEBR-04-2016-0112Type
ArticleLanguage
enISSN
1355-2554ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1108/IJEBR-04-2016-0112
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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/