A decade of violent conflict in eastern Congo has claimed more than 5 million lives—many due to famine, preventable disease, killings, displacement, and sexual violence. Congo’s conflict stems from long-standing grievances, a state failing to protect its citizens, and the proliferation of multiple armed groups who thrive in regions where rule of law is weak. The multimillion dollar trade in confli
ct minerals currently provides incentive for these militias and military units to control mineral-rich territories, often through the systematic use of r**e and torture to destroy the social fabric of communities. Tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold sourced from Congo’s mines can be found in the electronics we use every day. Jewelry, aerospace, automotive, and defense industries also use them, making them central to the technology that drives our business and communications infrastructure, our social engagement and national security.
