The Democratic Republic of Congo has filed criminal complaints against Apple in France and Belgium, accusing the tech giant of using conflict minerals from the east of DRC. The lawsuit claims these minerals fund armed groups and contribute to violence, child labor, and environmental destruction.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has initiated legal action against Apple, accusing the tech company of using conflict minerals sourced from the eastern part of the country. Filed in France and Belgium, the lawsuit claims that Apple’s supply chain is contaminated with "blood minerals," particularly tin, tantalum, and tungsten, which are allegedly extracted from conflict zones controlled by armed groups. These minerals are then allegedly laundered through international supply chains, fueling violence and contributing to forced child labor and environmental devastation.
The legal complaint, representing the Congolese government, suggests that the minerals from DRC mines, some operated by militias, end up in global products like smartphones and computers. These activities, the lawsuit argues, contribute to the ongoing cycle of violence in the region, where armed groups finance their operations through mineral exploitation.
In response, Apple has strongly denied the allegations, stating its commitment to responsible sourcing and the highest standards for its suppliers. The company emphasized that it had taken steps to suspend sourcing of certain minerals from the DRC and Rwanda due to concerns over the ability to conduct independent audits.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, fueled by the demand for these minerals, has been a source of violence for decades, with rights groups highlighting the role of international companies in perpetuating the crisis. Rwanda has dismissed the legal action, calling it a media stunt, and denies selling conflict minerals to Apple.
