International Rights Advocates (IRA), a non-governmental organization, has stepped into the limelight, rallying against US tech giants over allegations of child labour in cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The case centers on the tragic demise of underage workers in these mines. This issue has gained global attention due to the fundamental role the Democratic Republic of Congo plays in cobalt supply, as it accounts for 60% of the world’s reserves.
The Global Significance of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Cobalt
Cobalt, a rare metal that forms only 0.001% of Earth’s crust, is pivotal in the creation of batteries that power mobile phones and electric vehicles. With its unique physical properties, similar to iron and nickel, this metal is an essential ingredient in many industries.
Rare Earths: An Overview
Rare earths refer to a range of chemical elements found integral to Earth’s crust. These elements are renowned for their unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties – qualities that make them indispensable in various modern technologies encompassing consumer electronics, computers, networks, communications, healthcare and national defense.
Their rarity stems from earlier technological limitations that made it difficult to extract these elements from their oxide forms. Today, despite their occurrence in numerous minerals, their concentration levels are typically low, making economical refinement a challenge.
The Various Applications of Cobalt
Aside from its utility in creating batteries for mobile phones and electric vehicles, cobalt boasts a plethora of applications due to its properties. Its use in alloys and superalloys helps in the manufacturing of parts for aircraft engines, gas turbines, high-speed steels, corrosion-resistant alloys, and cemented carbides. It further plays a significant role in magnet and magnetic recording media production.
A particular isotope of cobalt, cobalt-60, is of critical importance in the medical field for treatment procedures and food irradiation.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Cobalt Composition | Forms only 0.001% of Earth’s Crust |
| Cobalt in DRC | DR Congo accounts for 60% of the world’s Cobalt supply |
| Rare Earths | Series of elements with unique properties. Used widely in modern technologies |
| Applications of Cobalt | Used in producing batteries, alloys, magnets and in medical treatments |
The Role of International Rights Advocates
As a human rights NGO, International Rights Advocates champions corporate accountability through legal advocacy and capacity building. In this instance, their legal action against US tech giants is driven by their mission to uphold human rights and promote ethical corporate behavior, particularly concerning child safety and welfare.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024