Many believe that minerals have fueled the seemingly endless war in the Democratic Republic of Congo. And many, as stated in a BBC article, have also asked the question, “What is the human cost of a mobile phone?” This question may seem odd at first, but upon further inspection, becomes increasingly rational. The Congo is one of the main suppliers of the minerals coltan and cassiterite, which are commonly used in electronics. Many human rights activists believe that soldiers are fighting to gain control of mines in Congo. As the fighting progresses, millions of individuals are displaced from their homes, and lives are shattered. The United Nations also believes that illegal mining operations are likely taking place, and could be a way for rebel fighters to gain money. Knowing this information, it becomes important for individual’s to take into consideration where they are buying their electronic products. Perhaps, petitioning an industry that might be the basis of a bloody war, is a start to an end.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7723988.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8234583.stm
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