Kimberley Process: How It Works & Its Impact on Conflict Diamonds

What Is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process (KP) is a multilateral trade regime aimed towards removing “conflict diamonds” from the global supply chain. Established in 2003, the KP functions as a commitment that prevents the flow of “conflict diamonds” (otherwise known as “blood diamonds”) – which are defined as rough diamonds used to finance wars against governments. With 59 participants, the KP purportedly accounts for 99.8% of the global production of rough diamonds.

However, the KP has limitations. Their strict, narrow definition of what constitutes a “conflict diamond” (only gems with profits used to fund wars against legitimate governments) can turn a blind eye to the blatant human rights abuses, violence, exploitation, and environmental degradation that stems from diamond-rich countries who are already active participants of the KP.

How Does the Kimberley Process Work?

The Kimberley Process operates a certification system with several key requirements that participants follow:

Certification Requirements: International shipments of rough diamonds are to be accompanied by a Kimberley Process Certificate. The KP Certificate includes details such as the parcel’s weight, origin (if available), and other identifying information, creating a paper (or electronic) trail.
Trading Restrictions: Participants can only engage in rough diamond trade with other Kimberley Process members.
Transparency Standards: All participating countries must share accurate statistical data regarding their diamond production and trade.
National Legislation: Countries must implement strict domestic laws and establish institutions to enforce Kimberley Process requirements.

Assortment of loose diamonds in different shapes.

Who Started the Kimberley Process?

In May 2000, several diamond-producing South African states met in Kimberley, South Africa along with industry stakeholders and diamond trading experts to discuss ways to prevent the trade of “conflict diamonds.” The states aimed to ensure that diamond profits were not financing violent rebel movements to undermine legitimate governments.

Later that year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution in support of an international certification scheme for rough diamonds. Three years later, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was developed, officially setting requirements for controlling rough diamond production and trade at an international scale.

Is the Kimberley Process Working?

Yes and no. The effectiveness of the Kimberley Process shows both significant achievements and notable limitations:

Achievements

Reduction in “conflict diamonds” from approximately 15% in the 1990s to less than 1% of global diamond production today.
Economic benefits for diamond-producing countries, such as Botswana, where the diamond trade generates significant government revenue.
Creation of an unprecedented framework for collaboration between governments, industry, and civil society.

Limitations

Narrow definition of “conflict diamonds” that excludes other forms of violence and human rights abuses and environmental concerns.
Challenges with enforcement and preventing smuggling.
Lack of robust mechanisms for monitoring and penalizing non-compliance.
Relies on documentation provided at the point of export and is therefore not an independent verification of “conflict‑free” status.
It is not an in‐depth audit of a diamond’s origin or supply chain integrity.

Kimberley Process FAQ

Why is it called the Kimberley Process?

The KP is named after the initial discussions that took place in Kimberley, South Africa and would later form the KPCS document. Since much of major diamond mining is centered there, Kimberley is colloquially known as Diamond City – not only is it a hub of the diamond trade, it’s also the site where initial attempts to improve it began.

Why was the Kimberley Process created?

The Kimberley Process was created to prevent rough diamonds from financing wars and conflicts against legitimate governments. It aimed to ensure that diamond purchases contribute to legitimate economic development rather than funding violence.

How effective is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process has achieved mixed results. While it has significantly reduced the flow of "conflict diamonds” in the global market, challenges remain with enforcement, smuggling, and its limited scope in addressing human rights abuses and environmental concerns.

How many steps are in the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process involves four main steps:

Meeting minimum requirements and establishing national legislation
Committing to transparent practices and data exchange
Trading only with fellow compliant members
Providing certification for all rough diamond exports

When was the Kimberley Process created?

The Kimberley Process was established in 2003, following its development between 2000 and 2002. The certification scheme was signed in November 2002 in Interlaken, Switzerland.

What are the limitations of the Kimberley Process?

Key limitations include:

A narrow definition of “conflict diamonds” that excludes broader human rights abuses
Weak enforcement mechanisms and controls
Weak traceability to country of origin
Challenges with smuggling and non-compliance
Lack of robust accountability measures
Limited ability to address environmental damage and labor exploitation

Why is it hard to determine how successful the Kimberley Process is?

The largest issue in proving that the Kimberley Process is successful is the fact that diamonds are difficult to trace once they leave mines. For example, when a KPCS diamond is exported from its country of origin to Belgium or Dubai, both major rough-diamond trading cities, it is issued a KP Certificate from its country of origin. In Belgium or Dubai, the rough diamond can be mixed with other origins and sold in the same packet. Once the rough diamond is sold and exported, often to India, a new KP Certificate is issued in Belgium or Dubai with the origin now stating “Mixed.” The original KP Certificate does not continue on the journey with the rough diamond, and the country of origin is now detached from the rough diamond. Additionally, there are numerous cases of documentation fraud listed on the KP’s own website, proving that there are holes in the process – and limits to its success.

Who participates in the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process includes 60 participants representing 86 countries, with the European Union and its member states counting as one participant. It operates as a tripartite coalition involving governments, the diamond industry, and civil society organizations.

What is a Kimberley Process certificate?

A Kimberley Process certificate is an official document that verifies a shipment of rough diamonds meets KPCS standards. This certification is essential for international trade in rough diamonds between participating countries. Trade with non-participating countries is prohibited, and those who violate the rules can be expelled from the KP list.

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