"Africa's minerals, precious stones and other commodities should have brought better lives for African people. But for decades these trades have funded and fuelled some of the continent's most brutal wars. More transparent trading is critical. This EU proposal is a landmark opportunity to break the link between minerals, modern consumer appliances, and violence. Companies must be required to have clear processes to ensure their mineral purchases support peace, justice, and growth," said Olusegun Obasanjo.
The campaign, backed by 30 NGOs, calls for the regulation in Europe that would require companies to source their minerals responsibly.