Specific Remarks:

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a member state of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). The DRC is a key member, with its capital, Kinshasa, hosting the Forum of Parliaments of the ICGLR. The ICGLR works to address issues like conflict, illicit trafficking of natural resources, and displacement in the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo Minerals Certification Situation

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces ongoing challenges in its minerals certification system, particularly concerning "conflict minerals" like tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (3TG). While the DRC has made efforts to establish certification mechanisms, including the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR)'s Regional Certification Mechanism (RCM), these systems face issues with implementation and effectiveness. Concerns remain about the continued financing of armed groups through illicit mineral trade and the lack of robust due diligence in supply chains.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Certification Efforts and Mechanisms:

• ICGLR Regional Certification Mechanism:

• The ICGLR, which the DRC is a part of, has developed a regional certification mechanism to ensure minerals are conflict-free.

• Blue Status:

• The DRC introduced a "Blue Status" for artisanal mining sites to allow them to operate while undergoing qualification and validation under the ICGLR system.

• Challenges with implementation:

• Despite these efforts, the UN Group of Experts and others have expressed concern that many companies still rely on flawed traceability and due diligence schemes like ITSCI without conducting independent quality controls.

• Lack of transparency and penalties:

• There's a need for greater transparency, stronger penalties, and robust checks within certification systems to ensure they are effective in preventing the financing of armed groups.

2. Financing of Armed Groups and Illicit Trade:

• Significant revenue from illegal mining:

• The DRC loses significant tax revenue due to the illicit trade of its minerals, with 98% of artisanal gold production estimated to be undeclared and smuggled out of the country.

• Armed groups benefit:

• Income from illegal mining operations continues to fund armed groups, contributing to instability and human rights abuses.

3. Need for Robust Due Diligence:

• Beyond traceability:

• There's a growing recognition that traceability schemes alone are not sufficient. Robust due diligence, including independent audits and risk assessments, is needed to ensure minerals are sourced responsibly, according to the U.S. Department of State.

• International cooperation:

• International cooperation and support are crucial to help the DRC develop and implement effective certification and due diligence systems.

4. Environmental Concerns:

• Deforestation and pollution:

• Mineral extraction, especially artisanal mining, can contribute to deforestation and environmental degradation, including water pollution and harm to ecosystems.

• Need for sustainable practices:

• A just transition to a green economy requires sustainable mining practices that minimize environmental impact and benefit local communities.

5. The Role of the Private Sector:

• Responsible sourcing:

• Companies involved in the mineral supply chain have a responsibility to conduct thorough due diligence and ensure they are not sourcing minerals that contribute to conflict or human rights abuses.

• Addressing flaws in traceability schemes:

• Companies should work with the DRC government and other stakeholders to address the shortcomings of existing traceability schemes and promote more robust due diligence.

In summary, while the DRC has made progress in establishing certification mechanisms for minerals, significant challenges remain.