Minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold and cobalt are known to fuel conflicts and human rights abuses. Mining methods are often severely unsafe for workers. Clare Hobby, Global Director for Purchaser Engagement explains why multi-stakeholder engagement in local development programs is vital for improving life in vulnerable mining communities.
This text is an excerpt from the report Impacts and Insights 2019.
Clare Hobby, TCO Development
Forced labor, child labor, violence and corruption are continuing challenges for many mining communities, where militias and other armed groups control the oversight and output of largely artisanal mining operations. Working conditions are often unsafe, unregulated and lead to environmental degradation, while proceeds from mining operations are used to fund further conflict.
Conflict minerals are often traded illegally, and ruling militias frequently undermine peace efforts in order to maintain their dominance. The absence of a strong civil society and democratic, stable government leaves a void where these illegal organizations continue to operate, threatening both the environment and local populations.