Congo lawyers push for accountability from Apple

Lawyers representing Congo have filed complaints against Apple, accusing the tech giant of complicity in the use of conflict minerals, while calling for verification of its supply chain claims.

Apple warns that EU regulations are compromising consumer confidence and safety.

International lawyers for the Democratic Republic of Congo have welcomed Apple’s recent decision to instruct suppliers to stop sourcing minerals from conflict zones in Congo and Rwanda. However, they remain cautious, pressing ahead with legal complaints in France and Belgium that accuse Apple of using conflict minerals in its supply chain.

Apple strongly disputes these claims, stating that it has taken action to avoid sourcing tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold from the region due to escalating violence. The company highlighted that most of the minerals used in its devices are recycled and asserted its commitment to rigorous supplier audits and funding initiatives for improved mineral traceability.

Congo’s lawyers argue that Apple benefited from minerals extracted under violent conditions and smuggled through international supply chains. They insist on ground-level verification of Apple’s claims, stating that past crimes tied to conflict minerals cannot be erased. Millions of civilians in eastern Congo have been displaced or killed in decades-long conflicts fuelled by competition over valuable minerals.

While Apple has outlined its high standards for ethical sourcing, legal proceedings in Europe continue as Congo’s representatives demand accountability for alleged complicity in crimes linked to the region’s mining sector.