Lawyers representing the Democratic Republic of Congo have welcomed Apple’s recent commitment to stop sourcing minerals from the conflict-ridden region but remain cautious. This week, criminal complaints were filed in France and Belgium accusing Apple subsidiaries of complicity in crimes tied to the use of conflict minerals.
The case centers on Congo’s role as a major supplier of tin, tantalum, and tungsten—key components in electronics manufacturing. Rights groups and U.N. experts report that some artisanal mines in the region are controlled by armed groups responsible for human rights abuses, including massacres and sexual violence.
In a statement on Tuesday, Apple refuted the allegations, asserting it had directed suppliers to suspend sourcing the contentious minerals from both Congo and neighboring Rwanda.
“We took this action because independent auditors and certification mechanisms can no longer ensure the due diligence required to meet our standards,” Apple stated, adding that most of its mineral inputs are recycled.
However, Congo’s legal representatives have urged caution, emphasizing the need for independent verification of Apple’s claims.
“Apple’s statements must be substantiated with concrete evidence from the ground,” the lawyers said. They added that Apple’s recent pledge does not absolve the company from accountability for past practices.
Conflict-Driven Supply Chains
Since the 1990s, eastern Congo has been plagued by violent conflicts fueled by the competition for mineral wealth. Armed groups and militias sustain their operations through mineral exports, often smuggling materials via Rwanda—a claim denied by Kigali.
Apple, which relies on third-party suppliers for raw materials, maintains that it conducts rigorous audits and supports initiatives to enhance traceability in the mineral supply chain.
The lawsuits in France and Belgium seek accountability for alleged links between Apple’s supply chain and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Congo. Prosecuting authorities in both countries have not commented on the filings.
