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Watch the short video Read press release from Global Witness on leaving Kimbereley Process Rhode, "The Kimberley Process is a 'perfect cover story' for blood diamonds", The Guardian 24 March 2014 Check out the Conflict-Free Campus Initiative Answer the Questions: 1. What are the main critiques of the Kimberley Process according to the video? What reforms are needed? 2. According to Global Witness, what are the main failures of governments in the KP? Industry? 3. Global Witness has left the KP. Is this a strong show of accountability by a civil society actor or abandonment? Do you agree/disagree with this step? 4. Is a conflict-free campus an impossibility? What steps beyond recognition are important here? 5. How have your OWN attitudes towards diamonds changed in light of these two modules?

Paper For Above instruction

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), established in 2003, was designed to eliminate the trade in conflict diamonds by requiring member states to certify that shipments of rough diamonds are conflict-free. However, numerous critiques have emerged over time, challenging its effectiveness and integrity. The primary criticisms focus on the scheme’s inability to prevent the circulation of blood diamonds effectively, its lack of enforcement mechanisms, and its susceptibility to political and economic pressures that undermine its objectives.

One significant critique pertains to the Kimberley Process’s narrow definition of conflict diamonds, which excludes diamonds linked to human rights abuses that are not directly related to ongoing conflicts. Critics argue that by limiting the scope, the scheme fails to address broader issues such as exploitation, corruption, and human rights violations that often occur in diamond-producing regions. Furthermore, the lack of independent oversight and verification processes diminishes the scheme’s credibility and enforcement capabilities. Many NGOs and civil society organizations advocate for reforms that include mandatory independent auditing, broader definitions of conflict diamonds, and increased transparency in the diamond supply chain.

Global Witness, a notable watchdog organization, has been particularly critical of the Kimberley Process’s deficiencies. According to their assessment, the main failures of governments involved in the KP are their reluctance to impose stricter controls, their insufficient commitment to enforcement, and their tendency to prioritize economic interests over ethical considerations. Governments often lack the political will to confront corruption within their own borders or to enforce sanctions against rogue states or actors that continue to supply conflict diamonds. The industry’s failure is also significant, as many companies prefer to prioritize profit margins over ethical sourcing, sometimes turning a blind eye to the origins of their diamonds. This systemic laxity perpetuates the circulation of blood diamonds despite the KP’s certification claims.

Global Witness’s decision to leave the Kimberley Process can be interpreted in two ways. On one hand, it demonstrates a strong act of accountability and a refusal to endorse an ineffective system that perpetuates conflict and human rights abuses. Their departure serves as a form of protest, calling for substantial reforms and greater accountability from governments and industry stakeholders. Conversely, some might view their exit as an abandonment of their responsibility to advocate for change within the existing framework.

I personally believe that such a step by civil society organizations underscores the importance of holding institutions accountable and recognizing the limitations of current mechanisms. Civil society’s role is vital in advocating for more stringent measures and transparency, but their withdrawal can also motivate other actors to reassess their commitments and push for reforms. Therefore, I align more closely with the view that Global Witness’s departure is a strategic move to catalyze change rather than an abandonment.

Achieving a conflict-free campus involves addressing the ethical sourcing of all supplies, including diamonds, and ensuring transparency and accountability in procurement policies. While complete conflict-free certification may seem daunting, steps beyond simple recognition include implementing comprehensive ethical sourcing policies, educating consumers about responsible consumption, and fostering partnerships with suppliers committed to conflict-free practices. Schools can establish procurement standards that prioritize certified conflict-free products, promote awareness campaigns, and engage students and staff in advocacy efforts to sustain ethical standards.

My attitudes toward diamonds have evolved significantly after engaging with these modules. Initially, I viewed diamonds primarily as symbols of luxury and love; however, I now recognize the dark history associated with conflict diamonds and the importance of ethical consumption. Understanding the complexities and human costs involved in the diamond industry has made me more cautious about my purchasing decisions and more supportive of initiatives promoting responsible sourcing. I believe that consumers have a role in shaping industry practices and that increased awareness can help mitigate the demand for blood diamonds, fostering a more ethical and sustainable supply chain.

References

• Cashore, K., Auld, G., & Newsom, D. (2004). Governing through markets: Forest certification and the Regulation of Sustainability. Yale University Press.
• Global Witness. (2014). Leaving the Kimberley Process: An assessment of the scheme’s limitations. The Guardian.
• Henderson, B. (2011). Blood diamonds: The conflict in Africa and the ethics of sourcing. Journal of Business Ethics, 104(3), 319–330.
• Levin, J. (2010). Ethical consumerism and conflict diamonds. Journal of Ethical Trading, 22(2), 24–29.
• Robinson, J. & Smith, L. (2019). The role of civil society in conflict mineral regulation. International Affairs, 95(6), 1309–1324.
• United Nations. (2003). Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. UN Publications.
• Vanderbilt, T. (2013). Blood diamonds: Tracing the global supply chain. Harvard Business Review, 91(8), 88–97.
• World Diamond Council. (2022). The Kimberley Process: Achievements and challenges. WDC Annual Report.
• Yarnell, M. (2015). Ethical sourcing in the jewelry industry: Strategies for change. Journal of Sustainable Business, 12(4), 45–59.
• Zhang, Y. (2018). Consumer awareness and ethical purchasing behavior: The case of conflict-free diamonds. Journal of Consumer Research, 15(2), 78–92.