The Kimberley Process (KP) emerged in response to the urgent need to combat the trade in “conflict diamonds”, which are rough diamonds used to finance violence by rebel groups against legitimate governments. Initiated in May 2000 in Kimberley, South Africa, the KP brought together Southern African diamond-producing states to devise strategies for ensuring that diamond purchases do not contribute to human rights abuses.

In December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the establishment of an international certification scheme for rough diamonds, leading to the creation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) in November 2002. The KPCS outlines stringent requirements for the production and trade of rough diamonds, officially coming into effect in 2003 when participating countries began implementing its regulations.

The KP is inclusive, welcoming all countries willing to adhere to its standards. Currently, it comprises 56 participants representing 82 countries, with the European Union and its member states counted as a single participant. Collectively, these members account for approximately 99.8% of the global rough diamond production. The World Diamond Council and various civil society organizations, such as Partnership-Africa Canada, also play significant roles in the KP’s operations.

At the heart of the KPCS are extensive requirements that enable member countries to certify shipments of rough diamonds as “conflict-free”. To participate, countries must establish national legislation, implement internal controls, and commit to transparency and data exchange. Only diamonds accompanied by a KP certificate can be legally traded, ensuring that they are free from conflict-related origins.

The KP operates under a rotating chairmanship, with various countries, including South Africa, Canada, and the Russian Federation, having held the position. Participants convene biannually for intersessional and plenary meetings, alongside regular working group sessions. The effectiveness of the KP is monitored through review visits, annual reports, and the analysis of statistical data.

In summary, the Kimberley Process represents a global commitment to ethical diamond trading, striving to eliminate the scourge of conflict diamonds and promote responsible sourcing in the diamond industry.

Sources:
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