The mineral-rich-but-politically-unstable Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of a handful of countries in which ores like Columbite-tantalite (coltan) are widely available. These minerals are essential for making consumer electronics, which makes them valuable. Because sales of these minerals partially fund the militia groups that compete for control of this region, they are considered “conflict minerals” by groups like Amnesty International. Many argue something should be done, but what? Even as advocacy groups call for bans on conflict minerals, critics argue that these bans do the most harm to the populations they are designed to protect.
What does thoughtful global advocacy look like? Do we help the most by being judicious consumers? By pressuring governments to better regulate trade? How much information do we need before we can feel confident we are advocating for the best solutions?
Duke Visiting Professor of African and African American Studies Stephen Smith will join us for this conversation.
This event is cosponsored by the Duke Partnership for Service.
iThink meets in the Breedlove Room of Perkins Library Wednesday, January 22nd from 6-7:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
The iThink: An Ethics Cafe series consists of intimate and informal discussion events that focus on a new topic each session and provide an opportunity for undergraduate students to talk about ethics in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Contact Christian Ferney for more information.