What is the Diamond Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, and why was it established?
The Diamond Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is an international initiative launched in 2003 to tackle the global issue of conflict diamonds, often known as “blood diamonds.” These diamonds originate from war zones where their sale finances armed conflicts against governments. As a result, the KPCS was established to prevent these diamonds from entering the global market and to promote ethical practices within the diamond industry. The scheme emerged due to international pressure to address the connection between diamonds and violence, particularly in African countries such as Sierra Leone, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
How does the Kimberley Process work to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds?
The Kimberley Process works by requiring participating countries, referred to as “participants,” to implement strict rules. Specifically, these rules ensure that diamonds do not originate from conflict zones. The system includes a certification process where each shipment of rough diamonds must have a Kimberley Process certificate, confirming that the diamonds are conflict-free. Furthermore, governments issue these certificates and ensure that diamonds are shipped in tamper-resistant containers.
To maintain transparency, participants must track diamonds from the mine to the market. This tracking involves thorough documentation and monitoring at every stage of the supply chain. By trading only with other participants, countries help keep conflict diamonds out of the legitimate market, thereby reducing the risk of these diamonds entering the global market.
Who are the participants in the Process, and how many are there?
The Kimberley Process currently includes 82 participants, representing 59 countries and regional organisations such as the European Union. These participants include a wide range of diamond-producing, trading, and consuming nations. Each participant enforces the Kimberley Process rules within its borders to ensure that the diamonds they import or export remain conflict-free. Thus, the Kimberley Process functions as a collaborative effort among governments, the diamond industry, and civil society to maintain its integrity and effectiveness.
What is the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and industry stakeholders?
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and industry stakeholders play essential roles in the Kimberley Process. For example, NGOs such as Global Witness helped bring attention to the issue of conflict diamonds and continue to monitor the process closely. They participate in decision-making and contribute to developing and enforcing the rules. Additionally, NGOs provide independent oversight, which is crucial for identifying areas where the Kimberley Process can improve.
On the other hand, industry stakeholders, including diamond industry representatives, work alongside governments and NGOs to keep the certification system strong. Their involvement ensures that the diamond supply chain remains transparent and conflict-free, thereby maintaining trust in the diamond market.
Has it been successful in eliminating the trade in conflict diamonds?
The Kimberley Process has indeed made significant progress in reducing the trade in conflict diamonds. The percentage of conflict diamonds in the global market has dropped from around 15% in the late 1990s to less than 1% today. This reduction clearly demonstrates the success of the KPCS in bringing greater transparency and accountability to the diamond industry.
However, the Kimberley Process has not entirely eliminated conflict diamonds. The system’s limited focus on rough diamonds leaves issues related to cut and polished diamonds less regulated. Furthermore, some participants have failed to comply fully, allowing conflict diamonds to slip into the legitimate supply chain. Despite these issues, the Kimberley Process has raised awareness and encouraged more ethical practices within the industry.
What are some criticisms and shortcomings of the Kimberley Process?
Critics of the Kimberley Process often point to several shortcomings. First, the scheme primarily focuses on rough diamonds, which leaves out important issues related to cut and polished diamonds. This narrow scope allows some diamonds associated with conflicts or human rights abuses to enter the market. Additionally, the Kimberley Process struggles with enforcement because some participants do not fully comply, leading to the possibility of conflict diamonds still entering the legitimate market.
Moreover, another significant criticism involves the Kimberley Process’s failure to address broader human rights and environmental issues. While the KPCS aims to keep conflict diamonds out of the market, it does not tackle problems such as labour exploitation, environmental damage, or the impact of mining on local communities. Consequently, these gaps have led to calls for the Kimberley Process to expand and strengthen its standards.
How can consumers ensure that the diamonds they purchase are conflict-free?
Given the limitations of the Kimberley Process, consumers can take additional steps to ensure their diamonds are conflict-free. In addition to relying on Kimberley Process certification, consumers should ask jewellers about their sourcing practices. Seeking diamonds certified by third-party organisations such as the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) or Fairmined offers another layer of assurance. Moreover, consumers can choose jewellers who prioritise ethical and sustainable sourcing, ensuring that the diamonds they buy are not only conflict-free but also responsibly mined.
Are there ongoing efforts to strengthen and improve the Kimberley Process?
Yes, efforts to strengthen the Kimberley Process are ongoing. Governments, NGOs, and industry representatives continue to discuss ways to improve the KPCS. For example, some propose expanding the Kimberley Process to cover the entire diamond supply chain, including cut and polished diamonds. Others suggest incorporating human rights and environmental standards into the certification criteria. Additionally, improving monitoring and enforcement mechanisms remains a focus to ensure better compliance among participants.
At DDS Diamond Design Studios in Burnside, South Australia, we are committed to sourcing diamonds that meet the highest ethical standards. We rigorously verify all our diamonds, ensuring they carry Kimberley Process certification to guarantee they are conflict-free and traceable to their source. Our dedication to transparency and responsibility in the diamond industry allows our customers to buy diamonds with confidence, knowing they have made an ethical choice.
