Conflict diamonds

Definition

Conflict diamonds, also known as blood diamonds, are precious stones mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflict against governments. These diamonds are often associated with human rights abuses, exploitation of workers, and significant contributions to prolonged violence and instability in regions rich in natural resources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict diamonds became a major issue during the civil wars in Sierra Leone and Angola in the 1990s, where rebel groups used diamond sales to fund their operations.
2. The term 'blood diamonds' gained prominence in the late 1990s, leading to increased awareness and advocacy for ethical sourcing of diamonds.
3. The Kimberley Process was established in 2003 as a response to international outcry over the trade in conflict diamonds, aiming to regulate diamond production and trade.
4. Despite efforts like the Kimberley Process, challenges remain in effectively monitoring diamond trade, allowing some conflict diamonds to still enter the market.
5. Consumer awareness has grown regarding ethical sourcing, prompting some companies to promote 'conflict-free' diamond options, impacting market dynamics.

Review Questions

• How do conflict diamonds impact local communities involved in mining operations?
  • Conflict diamonds significantly impact local communities by perpetuating cycles of violence and exploitation. In many mining regions, workers face harsh conditions, including forced labor and child labor. The revenues from these diamonds often fund rebel groups that exploit local populations, leading to human rights abuses and destabilization of communities. This dynamic contributes to ongoing conflict and suffering among the very people living in resource-rich areas.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Kimberley Process in addressing the issues associated with conflict diamonds.
  • The Kimberley Process has had mixed results in combating the trade of conflict diamonds. While it established a framework for certification that aims to ensure that diamonds are conflict-free, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Instances of non-compliance and loopholes allow conflict diamonds to enter the market. Furthermore, some argue that it has not adequately addressed broader human rights violations associated with diamond mining. Therefore, while the Kimberley Process is a step forward, it requires stronger measures and oversight for greater effectiveness.
• Assess how consumer behavior towards ethical sourcing of diamonds can influence the global diamond market and conflict dynamics.
  • Consumer behavior towards ethical sourcing has the potential to significantly influence the global diamond market by increasing demand for conflict-free diamonds. As awareness grows about the human rights issues associated with conflict diamonds, consumers are more likely to choose ethically sourced alternatives. This shift can pressure companies to adopt responsible sourcing practices and increase accountability within the industry. Ultimately, if consumers prioritize ethical considerations in their purchasing decisions, it could disrupt funding sources for rebel groups and reduce violence associated with diamond mining.

Related terms

Kimberley Process: An international certification scheme that aims to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds by requiring that diamonds be certified as conflict-free before being exported.

Rebel Groups: Armed factions that use violence and insurgency to challenge the authority of established governments, often financing their operations through the sale of conflict diamonds.

Human Rights Violations: Serious abuses of fundamental rights and freedoms, often occurring in diamond mining regions, including forced labor, child labor, and violence against local communities.