Kimberley Process - regular monitoring not agreed | ||
October 31, 2003 Although progress was made within the Kimberley Process towards universal monitoring of the rough diamond trade, there are still no provisions for regular, impartial monitoring of all participants. Top of the agenda at this week's meeting in Sun City was the critical issue of monitoring. NGOs, along with several countries and the World Diamond Council proposed a system of regular monitoring that could have covered all participating countries within 4 years. NGOs were disappointed that this was not adopted. However, we recognize that the Plenary's endorsement of a system in which countries could volunteer for review is a significant step forward. NGOs are encouraged that a number of countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville), volunteered for a monitoring review mission. A system wide approach to monitoring and review is essential to the effectiveness and credibility of the Kimberley Process Certification System, for ending the trade in conflict diamonds and ensuring consumer confidence. Amnesty International |
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