US Conflict Minerals Rule Fails to Curb Congo Violence, GAO Reports
The 2012 SEC disclosure rule has not decreased violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with armed groups still vying for control of mineral-rich areas.
- The GAO found no evidence that the SEC's conflict minerals rule has reduced violence in eastern Congo, a region plagued by armed groups.
- Violence has spread around informal gold mining sites, as gold is difficult to trace and easy to smuggle.
- The SEC disagreed with some GAO findings, citing concerns about the report's methodology and analyses.
- Despite increased due diligence by companies, many still struggle to determine the origins of their minerals.
- The GAO noted that over 100 armed groups remain active in eastern Congo, with some financing their operations through mineral trade.
Denver Gazette 
Hindustan Times 
