At the 2025 Intercessional in Dubai, the World Diamond Council (WDC) has praised the significant advancements made in broadening the Kimberley Process (KP) definition of conflict diamonds following a fruitful week of candid and constructive discussion.
After years of debate, the summit, which was hosted by the United Arab Emirates and current KP Chair Ahmed Bin Sulayem, represented a major advancement in the effort to broaden the definition of conflict diamonds.
The current definition, which was created more than 20 years ago, focuses mostly on how diamonds are used to fund rebel movements that oppose established governments. However, a wider scope is required due to the dynamic character of disputes.
In order to advance the discussion and bring numerous stakeholders back to the table, the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA), which represents 15 member nations and five observers, offered text. The dedication of African diamond producers to broadening the definition shown leadership.
“Consensus building does not happen via silence, but through fearless, active engagement,” stated WDC President Feriel Zerouki in her closing remarks. We believe that most KP members have arrived this time with the intention of updating the definition and restoring the Kimberley Process to its original level of influence.
With the advancement and completion of the majority of the important reform agenda items, including the creation of new guidelines intended to assist the formation of diamond communities upon request, the Review and Reform cycle has shown that the KP is effective.
Along with finishing the crucial work on governance and compliance, the KP also finished the Core Document.
All of these significant accomplishments are a result of the members’ diligence, commitment, and perseverance.
“Reducing the flow of conflict diamonds is not the only goal of the Kimberley Process. Supporting those who are behind it is also important. This is about empowerment more than compliance, making sure individuals who are most impacted by the diamond industry can get help if they ask for it,” Zerouki continued.
The WDC is still dedicated to helping participants finalize the enlarged definition of conflict diamonds as the KP gets ready for the 2025 Plenary, which will fully regain stakeholder and consumer trust in the global diamond supply chain.
“We are nearly at the finish line,” Zerouki stated. Together, let us stand. Let us maintain our momentum. Let us finish this.