From Blood Diamonds to Peace Diamonds: High-level Side Event at UN in New York on Conflict Prevention through the Kimberley Process

Since launching in 2003, the Kimberley Process has contributed towards peace, security and prosperity. It has proven to be an effective multilateral tool for conflict prevention in stemming the flow of conflict diamonds, defined as “rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance conflict aimed at undermining legitimate governments”.

The Kimberley Process has had valuable developmental impact in improving the lives of most people dependent on the trade in diamonds. It has reaffirmed that natural resources belong to the communities that mine them. The Kimberley Process therefore also makes an important contribution towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, by creating conditions for sustainable mining. In addition, the Kimberley Process has been complemented by other initiatives in natural resource governance.

Panel Discussion

This high-level panel discussion will feature some of the main driving forces behind the creation of the Kimberley Process, namely distinguished representatives from the public and private sector, civil society, and NGOs, who can give testimony of what the Kimberley Process has meant for them and their communities. The discussion will focus on the Kimberley Process’s achievements as a conflict prevention tool and its contribution to the transition from conflict diamonds to ‘peace’ diamonds. A Q&A session will follow.

Discussion points will include:

What lessons can be learned from the Kimberley Process for conflict prevention in the broader context of natural resource-related disputes?

How has the scheme affected the resource-conflict nexus?

What led to the success of creating the Kimberley Process, and how has it changed natural resource governance policy?

How has the scheme impacted the livelihoods of mining communities?

How has the Kimberley Process evolved to tackle contemporary challenges?

How can the Kimberley Process evolve to further contribute to international peace and security in evolving realities?

The event will be livestreamed by the UN at 15:00 EST / 21:00 CET.

When and where?

28 Feb at 15:00 EST/21:00 CET - UNHQ Conf Room 6. RSVP: Susanne [dot] Navaraeeas [dot] europa [dot] eu (Susanne[dot]Navara[at]eeas[dot]europa[dot]eu)

United Nations Headquarters - Conference Room 6

United Nations Headquarters

10017 New York

United States of America