DRC accuses Apple of using conflict minerals

in a statement, externalLawyers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo spoke of Apple’s supply chain being contaminated with “blood minerals.”

They allege that tin, tantalum and tungsten are extracted from conflict zones and then “laundered through international supply chains.”

“These activities have fueled a cycle of violence and conflict by funding militias and terrorist groups and have contributed to forced child labor and environmental devastation.”

Apple has not responded to a request for comment from the BBC, but in its report to the US Securities and Exchange Commission detailing its actions on this issue in 2023, the company highlights the measures it has taken to ensure that It is not using conflict minerals.

“While Apple does not purchase, acquire or source primary minerals directly, we are committed to meeting and exceeding internationally accepted due diligence standards for primary minerals and recycled materials in our supply chain,” he said.

As a result, everyone involved in the supply chain must participate in an “independent, third-party conflict minerals audit.” Apple said that in 2023 it eliminated 14 “smelters and refiners” that would not participate or do not meet responsible sourcing requirements.

Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is a major source of minerals and the world’s thirst for them has fueled wars there for decades.

Human rights groups have long alleged that large quantities of minerals from legitimate mines, as well as facilities run by armed groups, are transported to neighboring Rwanda and end up on our phones and computers.

Rwanda has in the past described the Congolese government’s legal action against Apple as a media stunt.

He has denied selling conflict minerals to the technology company.