Conflict diamonds may be referred to as blood diamonds. According to the United Nations, conflict diamonds originate from areas controlled by rebel forces that outwardly oppose legitimate and internationally recognized governments.
Significance
Geology.com reports that rebel factions use proceeds from conflict diamonds to purchase arms or to finance military actions. As mentioned by Amnesty International, these wars have led to an estimated 3.7 million deaths.
Production
In many cases, conflict diamond production occurs by forcing women, men and children to work in mines. Geology.com reports that conflict diamonds may be seized or stolen by rebel-led attacks on legitimate producers.
Location
Conflict diamonds may be found in African countries such as Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Angola and Liberia. Amnesty International indicates that conflict diamonds may be smuggled into neighboring countries and exported as legitimate diamonds.
Kimberly Process
The Kimberly Process requires every nation to certify that all diamond exports originate from legitimate mining sources. To this end, diamond exports must be accompanied by a certificate of origin. Geology.com states that governments that elect to participate in the Kimberly Process can't trade with non-member nations.
Prevention/Solution
As of 2010, Geology.com estimates that 71 nations along with several non-member governments adhere to the Kimberly Process. Furthermore, consumers may insist upon receiving a certificate or receipt, indicating their diamond purchase came from a conflict-free location.
0 comments:
Post a Comment