Background and Problem Statemen: The concepts of peace and conflict have long been deeply intertwined with economic issues, and this historical linkage has, in recent decades, evolved into specialized and independent strands within the discipline of economics. Despite the growing body of international scholarship, the conceptual positioning and differentiation among various branches of peace and conflict economics remain insufficiently systematized.
Objective: This article aims to clarify the role and significance of peace and conflict concepts within the structure of economic science and to analyze the historical evolution and conceptual development of related fields, including military economics, war economics, defense economics, security economics, and peace economics.
Methodology: This study adopts a descriptive–analytical approach based on authoritative library and documentary sources. First, the theoretical framework of peace and conflict economics is outlined. Subsequently, through a systematic review of Persian and international literature, the key concepts and principal orientations of this field are extracted, compared, and classified.
Findings: The findings indicate that each branch of peace and conflict economics is characterized by distinct theoretical frameworks, objectives, and functional roles. Incorporating peace and conflict variables into economic models enhances the understanding of socio-economic dynamics and contributes to the development of innovative approaches in economic policymaking, education, resource management, conflict mitigation, and the promotion of economic security.
Conclusion and Implications: The study underscores the necessity of paying greater scholarly and policy-oriented attention to peace and conflict economics, particularly in light of Iran’s sensitive geopolitical position. Strengthening this field can play a significant role in fostering economic and social stability and advancing sustainable development. Accordingly, peace and conflict economics should be regarded as a dynamic and strategic domain requiring expanded academic research and policy support.