A Paris prosecutor has dismissed a case from the Democratic Republic of Congo against Apple regarding conflict minerals sourced from the DRC. Allegations included illegal exports via Rwanda, but the prosecutor deemed them unsubstantiated. Lawyers for the DRC criticized the dismissal and intend to appeal. The DRC is a key supplier of minerals associated with human rights violations, and Apple has advised its suppliers to halt sourcing from the DRC and Rwanda.
The Paris prosecutor’s office has concluded a case brought by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) against Apple, related to allegations of the use of conflict minerals sourced from the DRC. The complaint alleged that Apple subsidiaries engaged in illegal exporting and trade of these minerals through Rwanda. Apple has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that it enforces strict guidelines for its suppliers to avoid conflict minerals.
On February 18, 2024, the prosecutor’s office dismissed the case, citing that the claims of money laundering and deceptive business practices lacked sufficient foundation. As a result, the complaint will not progress any further. The DRC initially filed criminal complaints in both France and Belgium, which were prepared on behalf of the country’s justice minister.
However, representing the plaintiffs, lawyers William Bourdon and Vincent Brengarth characterized the prosecutor’s decision as a “very partial dismissal.” They plan to appeal this ruling in the Paris Court of Appeal, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations and the importance of holding accountable those responsible for conflicts in the region.
The DRC is a significant producer of the 3T minerals—tin, tantalum, and tungsten—essential for technology, including mobile devices. Numerous artisanal mines, however, are allegedly controlled by armed groups implicated in serious human rights violations, including violence and sexual assault. Apple announced in 2024 that it has instructed its suppliers to suspend sourcing minerals from the DRC and Rwanda.
The region has endured turmoil since the 1990s, with ongoing fighting exacerbated by the active involvement of militant groups, including the Rwanda-backed M23. This group has recently taken control of key locations in North and South Kivu, contributing to the persistent instability affecting mineral extraction in eastern Congo.
In summary, the Paris prosecutor’s dismissal of the DRC’s case against Apple highlights the complexities surrounding conflict minerals and the challenges in holding corporations accountable for their supply chains. Despite Apple’s denials, the legal representatives of the DRC remain determined to challenge the ruling, citing serious implications for human rights in the region. The situation in Eastern Congo continues to be fraught with violence and exploitation, necessitating close scrutiny and action.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
