DIAMONDS

C. SheppardGGS 12

2011

What are conflict diamonds?

• Diamonds mined in a war zone and illegally traded to finance the war efforts of rebel groups, resulting in prolonged conflict and increased human rights abuses.

• Often called “blood diamonds.”

Where are conflict diamonds mined?

• Central and Western Africa– Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo,

Sierra Leone, Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia

Kimberley Process Certification Scheme

• Established in 2003.• Process to certify the

origin of diamonds from sources which are conflict free.

• Exists to prevent “blood diamonds” from entering the mainstream market.

• 75 countries currently participate in the process.

Other Conflict Resources

• Diamonds are not the only resources that are exploited to fuel armed conflict.

• Example:–Democratic Republic of the Congo • Gold, Tin Ore, Timber, Offshore Oil and

Coltan (used in making cell phones)

1. Will popular culture’s message about conflict diamonds (movies, music, etc.) change the way people think about diamonds? Why or why not?

2. Will this message make people stop buying diamonds? Why or why not?

3. Will it make people ask more questions before buying diamonds?

1. Will popular culture’s message about conflict diamonds (movies, music, etc.) change the way people think about diamonds? Why or why not?

2. Will this message make people stop buying diamonds? Why or why not?

3. Will it make people ask more questions before buying diamonds?

Works Cited

“Conflict Diamonds.” Amnesty International. 2011. Online. May 15, 2011. http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/business-and-human-rights/oil-gas-and-mining-industries/conflict-diamonds

“What is the Kimberley Process?” Kimberley Process. 2011. Online. May 15, 2011. http://www.kimberleyprocess.com/home/index_en.html