The U.S. Department of Labor has classified cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo as possibly produced under forced or child labor conditions, causing concern among local authorities and civil society. This decision may impact investor confidence in the DRC’s cobalt sector, where the government asserts efforts to improve labor conditions while producing 170,000 tons of cobalt in 2023.
In September, the U.S. Department of Labor identified cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as one of the commodities potentially tied to forced or child labor, leading to widespread concern among various stakeholders in the region. The DRC, recognized as the global leader in cobalt production, generated 170,000 tons of the mineral in 2023, raising alarms that this designation might deter potential investors from participating in the cobalt market. In response to this new classification, Congolese authorities have expressed their commitment to improving the cobalt supply chain, yet apprehensions continue regarding the sustainability of their production levels. Furthermore, a government spokesperson conveyed disappointment over the U.S. decision, highlighting its failure to acknowledge the progress made in addressing labor practices within the industry. They called upon international partners to bolster their technical and financial support to enhance the situation further.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is a pivotal player in the global cobalt supply, crucial for the production of rechargeable batteries, particularly for electric vehicles and other electronics. The country’s cobalt mining practices have long been scrutinized due to reports of child labor and poor working conditions. The U.S. Department of Labor’s recent actions to categorize Congolese cobalt as potentially linked to forced or child labor underline ongoing challenges in the industry despite efforts by the government and civil society to improve conditions.
The classification of Congolese cobalt by the U.S. Department of Labor has amplified existing concerns about child labor and labor rights within the country’s mining sector. While the DRC maintains its dominant position in cobalt production, the potential implications of this designation raise critical questions about the future of investments in the sector. The Congolese government pledges to address these issues comprehensively, yet the call for increased international support remains vital for lasting improvement in labor practices.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
