European MPs adopt tough stance on conflict minerals
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted in favour of a strong and binding law to deal with trade in conflict minerals, Amnesty International and Global Witness reported last month.
The vote determines the European Parliament’s (EP’s) position when it enters into negotiations with member States to find agreement on the law.
“This is a historic moment.
MEPs have voted for a law that should make a real difference to the lives of those suffering under the trade in conflict minerals,” says Global Witness conflict mineral campaign leader Michael Gibb.
He adds that, despite concerted efforts by big business to weaken the legislation, MEPs have clearly positioned themselves for a strong, binding law that is fit for purpose.
This will put Europe at the helm of global efforts to clean up the minerals trade and encourage businesses to source minerals in a way that benefits local communities.
“The EP has sent a clear signal. European firms cannot turn a blind eye to the risk that their operations contribute to human rights abuses abroad,” says Amnesty International legal advisory Lucy Graham.
She states that, if the European Council follows suit, this law will represent a change in what is expected of companies when the minerals used in their products come from countries driven by conflict.
The proposal will require European companies importing four key minerals – tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold – to ensure that their purchases are not contributing to conflict or human rights abuses in other countries.
The new law will also, for the first time, require European companies to act responsibly when importing products such as laptops and mobile phones that might contain conflict minerals.
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